What adverse effect should a nurse monitor for in a client taking trazodone?

When a client is taking trazodone, it is important for the nurse to monitor for the possibility of priapism, which is a prolonged and painful erection. This is a rare but serious side effect associated with the medication, and it requires immediate medical attention if it occurs. Priapism can lead to long-term complications, including erectile dysfunction, if it is not treated promptly.

While dizziness, sedation, and dry mouth are also common side effects of trazodone, they do not carry the same urgency as priapism. Dizziness and sedation can often be managed through dosage adjustments or patient education, and while dry mouth can be uncomfortable, it is typically not dangerous. Monitoring for priapism is crucial to prevent severe consequences, making it the primary adverse effect of concern for nursing assessments in patients taking trazodone.