What side effect should the nurse monitor for in a client taking trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride?

Trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride is an anticholinergic medication commonly used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. One of the key side effects associated with the use of anticholinergic drugs is urinary retention. This occurs because anticholinergics inhibit the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in promoting bladder contraction. As a result, patients may experience difficulty in urination or may retain urine, leading to a feeling of fullness, discomfort, and potential complications if not managed properly.

While dry mouth, blurred vision, and increased heart rate can also occur among anticholinergic side effects, urinary retention is particularly significant and requires careful monitoring by the nurse. It is vital for healthcare providers to assess urinary function regularly, especially in patients taking trihexyphenidyl, as the retention can contribute to discomfort and potential urinary tract infections.