Final answer:
For a patient receiving a sulfonamide antibiotic, the nurse should encourage fluid intake of 2000 to 3000 mL/day to maintain adequate hydration, ensure sufficient urine output, and prevent kidney-related adverse effects such as crystalluria.
Step-by-step explanation:
When planning care for a patient receiving a sulfonamide antibiotic, it is crucial for the nurse to encourage fluid intake of 2000 to 3000 mL/day. This recommendation aligns with preventive strategies aimed at reducing the excretory load on the kidneys and maintaining proper hydration to aid in the medication's efficacy and to prevent potential complications such as crystalluria (crystal formation in the urine). Increasing fluid intake helps to ensure adequate urine output, which is necessary for flushing out the drug and metabolites, limiting the risk of crystallization, and preventing kidney-related adverse effects.
Patients on sulfonamides should be educated on the importance of consuming sufficient fluids. Sulfonamide antibiotics can lead to a higher risk of forming crystals in the urine, which can cause kidney damage. Ensuring proper hydration by drinking at least 2000 to 3000 mL of water daily helps to dilute the urine, decrease the concentration of the drug, and promote excretion.