What therapeutic effect should a nurse monitor for in a client prescribed diphenoxylate hydrochloride with atropine sulfate for ulcerative colitis?

When a client is prescribed diphenoxylate hydrochloride with atropine sulfate for ulcerative colitis, the primary therapeutic effect to monitor for is decreased diarrhea. Diphenoxylate is an opioid antidiarrheal agent that works by slowing down intestinal motility, which in turn helps to decrease the number of bowel movements and improve the form of stool. This is particularly important in the management of ulcerative colitis, where diarrhea can be a significant and distressing symptom.

Monitoring for decreased diarrhea ensures that the medication is effectively alleviating one of the main symptoms associated with the condition. While decreased cramping may also occur as a result of reduced diarrhea, it is not the central therapeutic goal. Improved intestinal tone, while relevant, is less directly measurable compared to the frequency of diarrhea. Elimination of peristalsis is not desirable since some peristalsis is needed for normal bowel function, and total suppression could lead to complications such as bowel obstruction. Thus, focusing on decreased diarrhea as the key therapeutic effect aligns well with the intended use of the medication in the context of ulcerative colitis treatment.