A nurse is planning care for a client who has a prescription for acetazolamide. Which of the following findings should the nurse plan to monitor for as an adverse effect of this medication?

Choice A rationale Bronchospasm is a constriction of the airways, commonly seen in respiratory conditions like asthma. It is mediated by inflammatory responses and smooth muscle contraction in the bronchi. Acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, does not typically cause bronchospasm; its primary effects are on fluid and electrolyte balance and intraocular pressure. Choice B rationale Constipation is a common gastrointestinal symptom characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. It can be caused by various factors, including dietary habits, medications, and underlying medical conditions. Acetazolamide's mechanism of action, involving inhibition of carbonic anhydrase, does not directly lead to constipation as a significant adverse effect. Choice C rationale Diplopia, or double vision, is a visual disturbance where a single object appears as two. It can result from ocular muscle weakness, nerve damage, or other neurological conditions. Acetazolamide's therapeutic effects are on aqueous humor production in the eye to reduce intraocular pressure, but diplopia is not a recognized adverse effect of this medication. Choice D rationale Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that promotes the excretion of bicarbonate, sodium, potassium, and water. This diuretic action can lead to metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia (normal range: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), and hyponatremia (normal range: 135-145 mEq/L) due to increased renal excretion, hence requiring close monitoring of electrolyte balance.