After administering a rotavirus vaccine, which adverse effect should the nurse monitor for?

Monitoring for intussusception after administering a rotavirus vaccine is essential because this condition has been identified as a rare but serious adverse effect associated with the vaccine. Intussusception occurs when a part of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent segment, which can lead to obstruction and potentially severe complications if not addressed promptly.

The rotavirus vaccine is designed to prevent severe gastroenteritis in infants and children caused by rotavirus infection. While the risk of intussusception is low, it is a critical consideration for healthcare providers as they must be vigilant for signs and symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and a "currant jelly" stool that may indicate a bowel obstruction.

Other adverse effects listed, such as encephalopathy, thrombocytopenia, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, are not commonly associated with rotavirus vaccination, making intussusception the most relevant monitoring concern in this context. This awareness helps ensure that nurses and practitioners can educate families about potential signs to watch for and provide appropriate care if any symptoms arise following vaccination.