A patient is prescribed diltiazem for hypertension, what should the nurse monitor the patient for?

A. Gout: Diltiazem does not affect uric acid metabolism, so it is not associated with gout. Monitoring for gout is unnecessary in patients taking this medication. B. Chronic kidney disease: Diltiazem does not directly cause kidney damage, and routine monitoring for CKD is not a primary concern. Kidney function may be checked as part of general hypertension management but is not a specific adverse effect. C. Heart failure: Diltiazem is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that has negative inotropic effects, which can worsen pre-existing heart failure. Monitoring for signs of fluid retention, dyspnea, and decreased cardiac output is essential. D. Hyperthyroidism: Diltiazem does not influence thyroid hormone levels, and hyperthyroidism is unrelated to its use. Monitoring for thyroid disease is not indicated solely due to diltiazem therapy.