Question

A nurse in a provider's office is collecting data from a client who has been taking amoxicillin for 10 days and reports diarrhea and cramping. The nurse should recognize that these manifestations occur secondary to which of the following adverse effects?

A) Hypoglycemia
B) Hyperkalemia
C) Superinfection
D) Hepatotoxicity

Answer 1

The manifestations of diarrhea and cramping in the client who has been taking amoxicillin for 10 days are likely due to superinfection, which is a secondary infection that may develop as a result of long-term, broad-spectrum antimicrobial use.

Step-by-step explanation:

The manifestations of diarrhea and cramping in the client who has been taking amoxicillin for 10 days are likely due to superinfection, which is a secondary infection that may develop as a result of long-term, broad-spectrum antimicrobial use.

When we take an antibiotic, it not only kills the disease-causing bacteria but also many of the beneficial bacteria in our bodies. This disruption to the normal microbiota can lead to the overgrowth of other microorganisms, including opportunistic pathogens, resulting in diarrhea and other symptoms.

Therefore, the nurse should recognize that the manifestations reported by the client are most likely due to superinfection. Superinfection is a well-known adverse effect of long-term antibiotic use.