The health care provider recommends daily fiber supplements for an elderly client who is experiencing frequent constipation. What statement is important for the nurse to include when educating a client about these supplements?

Choice A reason: Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole does not require extended sun exposure. In fact, it causes photosensitivity, increasing sunburn risk, so patients should avoid prolonged sunlight. Vitamin D synthesis is unrelated to this antibiotic’s mechanism or side effects, making this statement inaccurate and potentially harmful for patient safety.

Choice B reason: Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole does not typically cause brown urine. Brown urine may indicate hematuria or other conditions, but it is not a common side effect of this drug. The medication may cause gastrointestinal upset or rash, but urine discoloration is not expected, making this statement inaccurate.

Choice C reason: Follow-up with a healthcare provider is necessary to ensure UTI resolution and monitor for side effects like rash, renal impairment, or rare hematologic effects. This statement is inaccurate, as lack of follow-up could miss treatment failure or complications, undermining effective management of the infection.

Choice D reason: Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole can cause bone marrow suppression, leading to anemia, particularly in patients with folate deficiency or prolonged use. Monitoring complete blood counts is critical to detect hemolytic anemia or other hematologic toxicities, making this statement accurate and essential for safe patient management during treatment.

Choice A reason: Phenazopyridine is a urinary analgesic that relieves pain, burning, and irritation in the urinary tract by exerting a topical anesthetic effect on the uroepithelium. It is commonly used for symptomatic relief in UTIs, making this statement accurate, as it directly addresses its therapeutic role in managing urinary discomfort.

Choice B reason: Phenazopyridine is used short-term (typically 2 days) for symptom relief, not necessarily until an antibiotic course is completed. Antibiotics treat the underlying UTI, while phenazopyridine addresses symptoms. This statement is inaccurate, as their durations are independent, based on clinical need, not synchronized completion.

Choice C reason: Phenazopyridine is not contraindicated in UTIs; it is specifically indicated for symptomatic relief in these infections. It does not treat the infection but alleviates discomfort. This statement is inaccurate, as phenazopyridine is a standard adjunctive therapy in UTI management for pain relief.

Choice D reason: Phenazopyridine provides relief within hours, not almost immediately. Its onset requires absorption and distribution to the urinary tract, typically taking 1-2 hours. This statement is inaccurate, as the relief, while rapid, is not instantaneous, and patients should be informed of the expected timeframe.