HESI Medical Surgical Practice Quiz Related

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The patient will take a high dose of azithromycin after discharge from the hospital. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching?

  • A. I may take antacids 2 hours before taking this drug.
  • B. I should take acetaminophen for fever or mild pain.
  • C. I should expect diarrhea to be a common, mild side effect.
  • D. I should avoid dairy products while taking this drug.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Azithromycin peak levels may be reduced by antacids when taken at the same time, so patients should be cautioned to take antacids 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking the drug. Choice B is incorrect because high-dose azithromycin carries a risk for hepatotoxicity when taken with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs such as acetaminophen. Choice C is incorrect as diarrhea may indicate pseudomembranous colitis and should be reported, not expected as a common mild side effect. Choice D is incorrect; there is no restriction for dairy products while taking azithromycin.