The nurse is preparing to apply the client’s scheduled fentanyl transdermal patch. The nurse notes the previously applied patch is intact on the client’s upper back and the client reports no pain. Which action should the nurse take?

1. Recommend use of an over-the-counter antipyretic: While treating fever with an antipyretic like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may provide symptomatic relief, the priority in this scenario is to assess for other adverse effects of the medication. Fever can be a sign of an allergic reaction or other adverse effects to the antibiotic. Therefore, it is important to first assess for other symptoms before recommending symptomatic treatment.

B) Determine if other adverse effects have developed: This is the correct answer. The onset of a low-grade fever after starting a new medication, such as amoxicillin, warrants further assessment for other adverse effects. The nurse should inquire about other symptoms the client may be experiencing, such as rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal disturbances, which could indicate an allergic reaction or other adverse effects.

C) Ask if the medication has been kept refrigerated: While it is important to ensure proper storage of medications, such as amoxicillin, which may require refrigeration, the onset of a low-grade fever is not typically related to medication storage. Therefore, this action would not address the client’s current symptoms and concerns.

D) Instruct the client to increase oral fluid intake: While maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall health and may help manage symptoms of illness, such as fever, the priority in this scenario is to assess for other adverse effects of the medication. Therefore, increasing oral fluid intake alone would not address the potential adverse effects of amoxicillin.

A) Bronchitis: Methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant, is not contraindicated in clients with bronchitis. While caution may be warranted in individuals with respiratory conditions due to potential stimulant effects, bronchitis alone does not necessitate specific precautions or contraindications for methylphenidate use.

B) Diabetes mellitus: Methylphenidate use does not typically pose significant risks for individuals with diabetes mellitus. While stimulant medications may affect appetite and blood glucose levels, they are not contraindicated in clients with diabetes. Monitoring blood glucose levels may be prudent, but it is not the primary concern when reviewing the medical record before administering methylphenidate.

C) Hypertension: Reviewing the medical record for hypertension is essential before administering methylphenidate. Stimulant medications like methylphenidate can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially exacerbating hypertension or cardiovascular conditions. Clients with uncontrolled hypertension may require dose adjustments or alternative treatments to mitigate cardiovascular risks associated with methylphenidate use.

D) Hypercholesterolemia: Methylphenidate is not contraindicated in clients with hypercholesterolemia. While stimulant medications may have minor effects on lipid profiles, they are not typically considered significant enough to warrant specific precautions or contraindications in individuals with hypercholesterolemia.