In developing a care plan for a client with heart failure taking benztropine mesylate, which intervention is a priority?

Monitoring intake and output is a priority intervention for a client with heart failure taking benztropine mesylate. Heart failure is characterized by the heart's inability to pump efficiently, leading to fluid retention and imbalances. Maintaining a close watch on the client's intake and output helps identify changes in fluid status, such as edema or pulmonary congestion, which can exacerbate heart failure symptoms.

Benztropine mesylate is primarily an antiparkinsonian medication that can have anticholinergic effects, potentially leading to urinary retention, increased fluid retention, or other complications. By keeping track of fluid intake and output, healthcare providers can make timely interventions if the client's condition worsens. This approach is essential for preventing further complications, such as worsening heart failure or renal impairment.

While the other interventions are important in the overall care of a heart failure patient, monitoring intake and output directly addresses the fluid management aspect, which is critical in heart failure management.