A client is ordered to receive a cephalosporin to treat a ...

[maychende]

A client is ordered to receive a cephalosporin to treat a bacterial infection. Regarding monitoring of the client, the highest priority action on the part of the nurse includes assessing the client for which side effects?
 
  a. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  b. Photophobia and phototoxicity
  c. Pain with urination and blood in the urine
  d. High fevers and sweating

Question 2

A client has been receiving a cephalosporin for 20 days to treat a severe bacterial infection. The client complains of mouth pain, and the nurse assesses white patches in the client's mouth. What is the highest priority action on the part of the nurse?
 
  a. Provide mouth care with glycerin swabs.
  b. Encourage the client to drink more fluids.
  c. Notify the physician and describe symptoms.
  d. Administer analgesia for the mouth pain.

[reversalruiz]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Common side effects of cephalosporins include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, itching, and rash.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
These symptoms may indicate a superinfection and should be reported to the physician.