A patient is receiving a glucocorticoid medication (ex. prednisone) to treat an inflammatory condition, the provider has ordered a slow taper in order to discontinue this medication. The nurse explains to the patient that this is done to prevent which condition

A. "Report reddish-brown urine to the provider immediately.": Phenazopyridine commonly causes reddish-orange urine because of its dye component. This effect is harmless and expected, so reporting it as an emergency is unnecessary. Teaching focuses on reassuring the patient about this normal discoloration.

B. "The drug provides symptomatic relief of pain.": Phenazopyridine is a urinary analgesic that helps reduce dysuria, burning, and urinary discomfort. It does not treat the infection itself but offers comfort while antibiotics work, making this the correct teaching point.

C. "Do not take this drug concurrently with an antibiotic.": Phenazopyridine is safely used along with antibiotics to relieve symptoms until the infection is controlled. Avoiding concurrent use would delay comfort without clinical benefit.

D. "This drug has antiseptic and analgesic properties.": Phenazopyridine does not have antiseptic or antimicrobial action. It does not eliminate bacteria and plays no role in infection control, only symptom relief.

A. Administer a rapid acting insulin: Giving additional insulin would worsen hypoglycemia and could lead to serious complications. The patient’s symptoms suggest low blood glucose, so administering more insulin is unsafe and not indicated at this time.

B. Perform bedside glucose testing.: Checking the patient’s blood glucose provides objective data to confirm hypoglycemia. This allows the nurse to determine the appropriate intervention, such as administering glucose orally or intravenously, ensuring safe and targeted treatment.

C. Notify the kitchen to deliver the tray.: While providing food is important, waiting for the tray without confirming blood glucose could delay treatment of hypoglycemia. Immediate assessment of glucose is required before feeding.

D. Give the patient orange juice.: Administering juice may be appropriate if hypoglycemia is confirmed, but giving it before verifying blood glucose could mask other causes of tremors and nervousness. Assessment first ensures safe and effective intervention.