Question

A woman will be taking oral contraceptives using a 28-day pack. What advice should the nurse provide to protect this client from an unintended pregnancy?

A. Limit sexual contact for one cycle after starting the pill.
B. Use condoms and foam instead of the pill for as long as the client takes an antibiotic.
C .Take one pill at the same time every day.
D. Throw away the pack and use a backup method if two pills are missed during week 1 of her cycle.

Answer 1

The most effective advice is to take an oral contraceptive pill at the same time every day and to consider additional protection when taking antibiotics. Missed pills require immediate correction and additional protection for a short period.

Step-by-step explanation:

To protect against unintended pregnancy while taking oral contraceptives using a 28-day pack, the best advice for the client would be option C: Take one pill at the same time every day. This consistent daily intake is crucial to maintain steady hormone levels provided by the pill, which prevents ovulation and therefore prevents pregnancy.

If the person has to take antibiotics, it's essential to be aware that some antibiotics could reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. In such cases, using a backup method, such as condoms, during the course of antibiotics and for a short period after, ensures continued protection against unintended pregnancy.

In case two pills are missed during the first week, follow the instructions provided in the pill's informational leaflet. Often, the advice is to take the most recent pill as soon as it is remembered and then continue taking the pills as usual, which may mean taking two pills in one day. A backup contraceptive method should be used for the next seven days after the missed pills.