What should a nurse monitor in a client receiving penicillin?

Monitoring for signs of an allergic reaction is crucial when a client is receiving penicillin, as this class of antibiotics is known to potentially cause hypersensitivity reactions in some individuals. Common allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylactic reactions, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms to observe for include hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or vomiting.

Early identification of an allergic reaction allows for prompt intervention, which can significantly improve patient safety and outcomes. While monitoring for liver failure, temperature variations, and changes in blood pressure can be important in certain contexts, they are not primarily associated with the immediate safety concerns related to penicillin administration. Thus, the most critical aspect of monitoring in this scenario is for any signs of allergic reactions to ensure the patient's well-being.