A pregnant client has been prescribed azithromycin (Zithromax) for an upper respiratory infection. The client asks the nurse why this medication was prescribed instead of erythromycin. The nurse explains that azithromycin:

Question

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. causes less nausea.
2. may be taken with or without food.
3. is safe to take during pregnancy.
4. does not cause diarrhea or abdominal pain.
5. is not associated with hypersensitivity.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,3
Rationale 1: Azithromycin causes less nausea.
Rationale 2: Azithromycin may be taken with or without food.
Rationale 3: Azithromycin is a category B drug and is safe for pregnant clients.
Rationale 4: Diarrhea and abdominal pain are the most common adverse effects of azithromycin.
Rationale 5: There are clients who are hypersensitive to macrolides and should not receive azithromycin.
Global Rationale: Azithromycin causes less nausea, can be taken without regard to food ingestion, and is safe for pregnant clients. Diarrhea and abdominal pain are side effects. There are clients who are hypersensitive to macrolides and should not receive azithromycin.