For a client taking benztropine mesylate for Parkinson's disease, which GI side effect should the nurse monitor?

Clients taking benztropine mesylate, which is an anticholinergic medication, often experience dry mouth as a common side effect. This occurs because anticholinergic agents block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates salivary gland secretions. As a result, the reduction in saliva can lead to a sensation of dryness in the mouth. Monitoring for dry mouth is important as it can affect the client’s ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral hygiene, potentially leading to complications such as tooth decay or oral infections if not managed properly.

While benztropine mesylate can affect gastrointestinal function, it is less associated with diarrhea or increased appetite, and mucositis typically refers to inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes, which is not a typical side effect of anticholinergic drugs. Therefore, the focus on dry mouth as a specific GI-related side effect is crucial for comprehensive care in clients receiving this treatment for Parkinson's disease.