The nurse is discharging a client to home with a prescription for clarithromycin (Biaxin). The nurse knows that teaching has been effective when the client states:

A. “It’s fine for me to become pregnant while taking this medication.”

This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline is known to have teratogenic effects, meaning it can harm the developing fetus if taken during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking tetracycline and avoid becoming pregnant during treatment.

B. “I will need to postpone my vacation at the beach until I finish this medication."

This statement demonstrates an understanding of the discharge instructions. Tetracycline can increase the risk of sunburn and photosensitivity reactions. Therefore, it's advisable for the client to avoid prolonged sun exposure, particularly during peak sunlight hours, and to use sun protection measures such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding tanning beds or sunlamps. Postponing a vacation at the beach until after finishing the medication is a prudent precaution to minimize the risk of sun-related side effects.

C. “I am so glad to be leaving today because I have an appointment at the tanning salon."

This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline can increase the risk of sunburn and photosensitivity reactions. Visiting a tanning salon while taking tetracycline can further increase the risk of skin damage and should be avoided.

D. "I will stop taking this medication as soon as I feel better.”

This statement is incorrect. It's important for the client to complete the full course of tetracycline as prescribed by their healthcare provider, even if they start to feel better before finishing the medication. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete treatment and potential recurrence of the infection.

A. Penicillins:

Penicillins are a class of antibiotics commonly used to treat various bacterial infections. While they are generally well-tolerated and have a low incidence of adverse effects, they are not typically associated with cartilage toxicity or tendon rupture, including the Achilles tendon.

B. Fluoroquinolones:

Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics known for their effectiveness against a wide range of bacteria. However, they are associated with several significant adverse effects, including cartilage toxicity and tendon rupture. These adverse effects, particularly tendon rupture, are most commonly observed in weight-bearing tendons such as the Achilles tendon. Fluoroquinolones should be used cautiously, especially in populations at higher risk for tendon injuries.

C. Aminoglycosides:

Aminoglycosides are another class of antibiotics used to treat severe bacterial infections. While they have their own set of potential adverse effects, such as nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, they are not associated with cartilage toxicity or tendon rupture.

D. Sulfonamides:

Sulfonamides are antibiotics that inhibit bacterial growth by interfering with the synthesis of folate. While they can cause various adverse effects, including skin reactions and hematologic abnormalities, they are not associated with cartilage toxicity or tendon rupture.