Final answer:
Patients on rifampin should be warned about common side effects including dizziness, headache, and gastrointestinal issues, as well as serious ones like jaundice and mucosal hemorrhaging.
Step-by-step explanation:
When placing a patient on rifampin, a medication primarily used to treat tuberculosis, it is crucial to warn them about several possible side effects. The common side effects include dizziness, fever, chills, headache, and myalgia, while gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation can also occur. Patients might experience feelings of fatigue as well. More serious side effects, though less common, can include jaundice, rash, mucosal hemorrhaging, and, in very rare cases, seizures, shock, and potentially death. It's essential for patients to be aware of these potential side effects so they can monitor their health and communicate any concerns with their healthcare provider immediately.