RN HESI Exit Exam Capstone Related

Review RN HESI Exit Exam Capstone related questions and content

A client has been given a prescription for tetracycline HCL (Sumycin). The nurse should emphasize the client to

  • A. Take the medication with food or milk
  • B. Avoid prolonged sun exposure
  • C. Monitor for signs of yellowing skin or eyes
  • D. Expect a yellow-brown discoloration of the teeth
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Monitor for signs of yellowing skin or eyes.' Tetracycline can cause hepatotoxicity, leading to jaundice which may present as yellowing of the skin or eyes. This is a serious side effect that the nurse should emphasize to the client. Choice A is incorrect because tetracycline should generally be taken on an empty stomach, not with food or milk. Choice B is also incorrect as tetracycline can cause photosensitivity, but it is not directly related to yellowing skin or eyes. Choice D is incorrect because tetracycline can cause yellow-brown discoloration of the teeth, but this is usually seen in children under 8 years of age, not a common concern for adult clients.