While discussing oxybutynin, the nurse practitioner should inform the patient that which of the following is NOT an adverse effect?

When considering the potential adverse effects of oxybutynin, it's important to understand the mechanism and common side effects associated with anticholinergic medications, which oxybutynin belongs to. The primary use of oxybutynin is to treat overactive bladder, and it does so by blocking the action of acetylcholine, which can result in several well-known side effects.

Sedation, dry mouth, and urinary retention are indeed common adverse effects of oxybutynin. Sedation can occur due to the central nervous system effects of the medication. Dry mouth arises from decreased salivary gland secretion, while urinary retention is a direct consequence of the medication’s anticholinergic properties that can inhibit bladder contraction.

Pruritus, on the other hand, is not typically associated with oxybutynin. It is generally related to allergic reactions or other dermatological conditions rather than a side effect of this specific medication. Therefore, identifying pruritus as not being an adverse effect is correct in this context, as it does not fit within the common spectrum of reactions expected from oxybutynin usage.

This understanding hinges on recognizing common side effects of anticholinergic drugs compared to rarer or unrelated symptoms, thus clarifying why pr