A nurse is collecting data from a client who is receiving vancomycin for a Clostridium difficile infection.
Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

Choice A rationale:

While it’s important for the provider to be informed if the medication isn’t working, it’s premature to change the medication after only 6 days.

Choice B rationale:

Amitriptyline does not need to be taken on an empty stomach to be effective.

Choice C rationale:

Amitriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, often takes several weeks before a therapeutic effect is felt.

Choice D rationale:

Increasing the dose prematurely can lead to unnecessary side effects. It’s better to wait for the medication to take effect.

Choice A rationale:

Prednisone does not need to be taken on an empty stomach. In fact, taking it with food can help reduce stomach upset.

Choice B rationale:

Prednisone suppresses the immune system, which can make users more susceptible to infections. Therefore, reporting symptoms like a sore throat to the provider is important.

Choice C rationale:

Prednisone can cause fluid retention and high blood pressure, so increasing sodium intake would not be advisable.

Choice D rationale:

Weight gain is a common side effect of prednisone due to increased appetite and fluid retention. Weight loss is not typically expected.