Question

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who has TB and a new prescription for rifampin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A) Expect your urine and other secretions to be orange while taking this medication.
B) Monitor for signs of hypothyroidism.
C) Avoid direct sunlight exposure to prevent skin discoloration.
D) Take the medication on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.

Answer 1

The nurse should inform the client prescribed rifampin for TB that their urine and other secretions may turn orange as a side effect of the medication. This is a benign effect and patients should be aware it is expected.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discharging a client who has tuberculosis (TB) and a new prescription for rifampin, it is important that the nurse includes several key instructions about taking this medication. The most pertinent instruction related to the options provided is: A) Expect your urine and other secretions to be orange while taking this medication. Rifampin is known to cause a harmless color change in bodily fluids to an orange-red color, which can be surprising if patients are not forewarned. It is less relevant to monitor for signs of hypothyroidism, avoid sunlight, or take on an empty stomach in the context of rifampin use.