Question

A patient prescribed amoxicillin for streptococcal pharyngitis reports new onset of a flat, itchy red rash on the chest and neck. Which action is most important?

1) Provide a different prescription.
2) Discontinue the medication.
3) Prescribe an antihistamine cream.
4) Assess for respiratory compromise.

Answer 1

The most important action when a patient develops a rash while taking amoxicillin is to assess for respiratory compromise, as it could indicate a severe allergic reaction. Discontinuation of the medication and consulting a healthcare professional for an alternative prescription would follow based on the assessment.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient prescribed amoxicillin for streptococcal pharyngitis reports a new onset of a flat, itchy red rash on the chest and neck, the most important action is to first assess for respiratory compromise. This assessment is crucial as allergic reactions to antibiotics can be accompanied by serious respiratory symptoms, indicating a possible anaphylactic reaction. If there's any indication of respiratory trouble, this could constitute a medical emergency. In the absence of respiratory symptoms, it might be appropriate to discontinue the medication and consult healthcare professional for a different prescription, as rashes can indicate an allergic reaction. Additionally, notifying the prescribing doctor should be done promptly because if it is an allergy, the medication will need to be changed.

Answer: 4) Assess for respiratory compromise.