Question

A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a urinary tract infection and new prescriptions for phenazopyridine and ciprofloxacin. Which of the following statements by the client indicates the need for further teaching?

A) "I can continue taking the medication even if my symptoms improve."
B) "I will drink plenty of water while taking these medications."
C) "I should avoid antacids while on ciprofloxacin."
D) "I will stop the medications if I develop yellowing of the skin."

Answer 1

The statement indicating the need for further teaching is D) "I will stop the medications if I develop yellowing of the skin," as this symptom suggests a serious condition that requires medical evaluation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is D) "I will stop the medications if I develop yellowing of the skin." This statement indicates a need for further teaching as yellowing of the skin can be a sign of drug-induced liver injury and requires immediate medical attention, rather than simply stopping the medications on one's own.

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), and phenazopyridine is a pain reliever that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with UTIs. It is important for patients to continue taking the full prescribed antibiotic course even if symptoms improve, drink plenty of water to help flush out the infection, and avoid antacids that can interfere with the absorption of ciprofloxacin. The patient's recognition of when to seek medical assistance due to potential side effects is crucial in the safe and effective management of their condition.