An adolescent with acne recently started isotretinoin. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor?

An adolescent with acne recently started isotretinoin. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor?

• A. Depression
• B. Weight gain
• C. Hyperglycemia
• D. Nausea

Answer: (A)

Isotretinoin can affect mood, so monitoring for depression is essential in adolescents undergoing this therapy. The medication has a known association with mood changes and, in rare cases, suicidality, making ongoing assessment of emotional well-being a priority. Nurses should regularly ask about mood, sleep, energy, interest in activities, and any thoughts of self-harm, and be prepared to escalate care if depression or suicidality appears. Weight gain, hyperglycemia, and nausea are not typical primary adverse effects associated with isotretinoin. While each patient can experience various symptoms, these are not the central safety concerns driving monitoring during isotretinoin therapy.

Isotretinoin can affect mood, so monitoring for depression is essential in adolescents undergoing this therapy. The medication has a known association with mood changes and, in rare cases, suicidality, making ongoing assessment of emotional well-being a priority. Nurses should regularly ask about mood, sleep, energy, interest in activities, and any thoughts of self-harm, and be prepared to escalate care if depression or suicidality appears.

Weight gain, hyperglycemia, and nausea are not typical primary adverse effects associated with isotretinoin. While each patient can experience various symptoms, these are not the central safety concerns driving monitoring during isotretinoin therapy.