A client taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole develops fever… | MyMerci
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Medication Administration PPT
Question

A client taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole develops fever, a painful spreading rash, oral erosions, and skin detachment with a positive Nikolsky sign. Which action should the nurse take first?

Explanation
Fever, painful rash, mucosal erosions, skin detachment, and a positive Nikolsky sign suggest Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. The suspected medication must be stopped immediately, the provider notified, and the client prepared for emergency hospitalization and supportive management of the airway, skin, fluids, electrolytes, pain, and infection risk. Continuing trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or treating the reaction as a minor rash can permit rapid, life-threatening progression.
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In-depth explanation

Clinical reasoning summary
Suspected Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis is a medical emergency. Stop trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole immediately, notify the provider, and prepare for hospital-level airway, skin, fluid, electrolyte, and pain support.
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