A female client with a urinary tract infection is prescribed co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole).. Drink at least eight 8-oz glasses of fluid daily

A female client with a urinary tract infection is prescribed co-trimoxazole (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole).

 Nurse Don should provide which medication instruction?

• a. “Take the medication with food.”
• b. “Drink at least eight 8-oz glasses of fluid daily.”
• c. “Avoid taking antacids during co-trimoxazole therapy.”
• d. “Don’t be afraid to go out in the sun.”

Answer B.

When receiving a sulfonamide such as co-trimoxazole, the client should drink at least eight 8-oz glasses of fluid daily to maintain a urine output of at least 1,500 ml/day. Otherwise, inadequate urine output may lead to crystalluria or tubular deposits. For maximum absorption, the client should take this drug at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. No evidence indicates that antacids interfere with the effects of sulfonamides. To prevent a photosensitivity reaction, the client should avoid direct sunlight during co-trimoxazole therapy.

The correct medication instruction for a female client with a urinary tract infection prescribed co-trimoxazole is: b. “Drink at least eight 8-oz glasses of fluid daily.”

Here's why the other options are not recommended:

a. “Take the medication with food.”

While taking co-trimoxazole with food can reduce stomach upset, it's not the most essential instruction in this case. Adequate hydration is crucial to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, hence the priority on fluid intake.

c. “Avoid taking antacids during co-trimoxazole therapy.”

While some interactions between antacids and co-trimoxazole exist, it's not a universal concern. If the client needs antacids, consulting the doctor for potential adjustments or alternative medications is more appropriate.

d. “Don’t be afraid to go out in the sun.”

While co-trimoxazole can increase sun sensitivity in some individuals, it's not a major concern for everyone. Avoiding excessive sun exposure is good practice for general health but not necessarily a specific instruction for this medication.

Therefore, option b directly addresses the primary goal of increased fluid intake for effective urinary tract infection treatment with co-trimoxazole.

Remember, it's always crucial for nurses to consult with doctors and refer to medication guidelines for specific instructions based on individual patient needs and potential contraindications.