Question

A patient comes to the clinic and is diagnosed with a vaginal fungal infection. The nurse provides patient information for self-administration of a vaginal antifungal medication. What will the nurse include in the instructions?

Select one:
a. Insert low into the opening of the vagina.
b. Discontinue use during menstruation.
c. Remain recumbent for at least 15 minutes after insertion.
d. "Rub the cream into the vaginal wall after insertion.

Answer 1

To self-administer vaginal antifungal medication, a patient should insert it deeply into the vagina, remain recumbent for at least 15 minutes post-insertion, continue use during menstruation, and not rub the cream after insertion. Topical antifungals or, less commonly, oral medications are used to treat vaginal candidiasis.

Step-by-step explanation:

When instructing a patient on self-administration of a vaginal antifungal medication, the nurse should include the following key instructions:

• Insert the medication deep into the vagina rather than low into the opening.
• Remain recumbent for at least 15 minutes after insertion to ensure the medication has time to disperse.
• Do not discontinue use during menstruation as the infection needs consistent treatment.
• Do not rub the cream into the vaginal wall after insertion; it is designed to disperse on its own.

Vaginal candidiasis is typically treated using topical antifungal medications such as butoconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole, ticonazole, and nystatin. Sometimes, an oral medication like fluconazole is also used. It's important to follow the provided instructions carefully to ensure effective treatment of the infection.