PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

While caring for a client receiving antibiotics, which assessment finding should alert the nurse to a possible adverse reaction?

1. Elevated blood pressure.

2. Change in mental status.

3. Increased heart rate.

4. New onset rash or hives.

The correct answer is: New onset rash or hives.

When caring for a client receiving antibiotics, a new onset rash or hives is particularly indicative of a possible allergic reaction, which is a critical adverse effect of antibiotic therapy. Allergies to medications, including antibiotics, can manifest as skin reactions such as rashes, hives (urticaria), or more severe symptoms like anaphylaxis. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for implementing appropriate interventions, such as discontinuing the medication and providing necessary treatments like antihistamines or corticosteroids. While elevated blood pressure, change in mental status, and increased heart rate can also be concerning and may indicate adverse effects or complications related to antibiotic administration, they are not as directly linked to the immediate risk of an allergic reaction as a rash or hives. These other signs may suggest other types of complications, such as cardiovascular issues or infections, but the presence of a rash or hives specifically signals a response to the medication itself, thus requiring prompt attention and intervention.