Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 95%
Simulated
A nurse is teaching a client about taking diphenhydramine. The nurse should explain to the client that which of the following is an adverse effect of this medication?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Sedation. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that commonly causes drowsiness and sedation as a side effect due to its central nervous system depressant properties. This sedative effect can impair alertness and coordination. Bradycardia (A), constipation (B), and hypertension (C) are not typically associated adverse effects of diphenhydramine. Bradycardia is more commonly associated with certain medications like beta-blockers, constipation may occur with opioids, and hypertension is more commonly linked to stimulant medications. Therefore, the correct choice for an adverse effect of diphenhydramine is sedation.