Which of these statements about side effects is true?

Side effects are defined as unintended reactions that may occur when a person takes medication, which can range from mild to severe in nature. The statement acknowledging that side effects are sometimes unintended adverse reactions accurately captures the essence of what side effects are. While administering medications, there is always a possibility that a patient may experience effects that were not the intended outcomes of the treatment.

The adverse nature of these reactions can vary, and not every side effect manifests with the same level of intensity or severity. Recognizing that side effects can be unintended highlights the need for monitoring patients closely and understanding the various ways a drug can interact with the body.

The other statements imply that side effects are always a specific type of issue (always severe or avoidable) or limit the scope of monitoring to only these effects, which does not provide an accurate representation of the complexities surrounding medication effects and patient care. Understanding that side effects can occur randomly underscores the importance of thorough patient assessment and communication.