What should be checked one hour after administering chlorpromazine by IM injection?

After administering chlorpromazine via intramuscular injection, it is crucial to monitor the patient's orthostatic blood pressure one hour later due to the potential side effects associated with this medication. Chlorpromazine, an antipsychotic medication, can cause sedation and fluctuations in blood pressure. Monitoring orthostatic blood pressure specifically helps identify any significant drops in blood pressure that may occur when the patient changes position, which can lead to dizziness or falls.

The significance of checking orthostatic blood pressure lies in the fact that chlorpromazine can have a hypotensive effect, particularly during the initial hours after administration when the body is still adjusting to the medication. This monitoring ensures patient safety and helps inform further medical decisions regarding continued treatment or adjustments in dosage.

While blood glucose, body temperature, and respiratory rate are also important vital signs to monitor in a clinical setting, they are not as directly impacted by the pharmacological effects of chlorpromazine as orthostatic blood pressure, making the latter the most relevant choice shortly after the medication is given.