On admission, the healthcare provider describes a broad spectrum of antibiotic, ticarcillin for a client with a gram-negative infection. Before administering the first dose, it is most important for the nurse to implement which prescription?

Baclofen is a muscle relaxant medication used to treat muscle spasticity, which is a condition that causes muscles to become stiff and rigid. It works by reducing the activity of nerves in the brain and spinal cord that cause muscle spasms.

Option a, using stool softener as needed, is appropriate because baclofen can cause constipation as a side effect.

Option b, avoiding ingestion of alcohol, is also appropriate because alcohol can increase the sedative effects of baclofen and cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Option d, taking medication with meals, is recommended because it can help reduce stomach upset and nausea that may occur as a side effect of the medication.

Option c, discontinuing the medication when spasms cease, is incorrect because muscle spasticity is a chronic condition, and baclofen is used to manage symptoms over a prolonged period. Discontinuing the medication abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and exacerbate the spasticity. Therefore, the nurse should educate the client to take the medication as prescribed by the healthcare provider and not discontinue it without medical advice.

The correct answer is:

a. Report any tendon pain or swelling to the healthcare provider immediately.

d. Limit exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds.

Choice A: Report any tendon pain or swelling to the healthcare provider immediately.

Ciprofloxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, can cause tendinitis and tendon rupture. This risk is higher in older adults, those on corticosteroid therapy, and those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants. Reporting any tendon pain or swelling immediately is crucial to prevent severe complications.

Choice B: Use NSAIDS to relieve mid joint aches and pains caused by the medication.

This is not recommended. Using NSAIDs with ciprofloxacin can increase the risk of central nervous system effects, including seizures. Therefore, it is not advised to use NSAIDs to relieve joint aches and pains caused by ciprofloxacin.

Choice C: Crush and mix the tablets with pudding if you have trouble swallowing the tablets.

Ciprofloxacin tablets should not be crushed. Crushing the tablets can affect the drug’s effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. If swallowing is an issue, the healthcare provider should be consulted for alternative forms of the medication.

Choice D: Limit exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds.

Ciprofloxacin can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, leading to severe sunburns. Patients are advised to limit their exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning beds while taking this medication.