A client is receiving orlistat as part of a weight management program. Which ongoing assessment should be included in the plan of care to determine the effectiveness of the medication?

A. Body mass index (BMI): Monitoring BMI is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of orlistat, as it is a medication specifically used to assist with weight management. Changes in BMI will provide a clear indication of how well the medication is working in helping the client lose or maintain weight. B. Daily calorie count: While tracking daily calorie intake can provide insight into the client’s adherence to dietary recommendations, it is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of orlistat. The medication's impact is better evaluated through changes in body weight and BMI rather than daily calorie consumption alone. C. Depression screening: Although managing weight can impact mental health, depression screening is not directly related to assessing the effectiveness of orlistat. The primary focus should be on evaluating weight changes and BMI, not mental health assessments. D. Serum protein levels: Orlistat can affect the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, but monitoring serum protein levels is not a direct measure of the medication’s effectiveness. Instead, changes in body weight and BMI are more relevant for evaluating the impact of orlistat on weight management