A client is receiving metronidazole for Clostridium difficile pseudomembranous colitis. Which information should the nurse include in this client’s medication teaching plan?
A.
Keep medication refrigerated.
B.
Drink a liter of water daily.
C.
Take one hour after eating.
D.
Avoid the use of alcohol.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Avoid the use of alcohol.
Explanation:
Metronidazole is commonly used to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria and protozoa, including Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) pseudomembranous colitis. When instructing clients on the use of metronidazole, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of avoiding alcohol.
1. Alcohol Interaction: Metronidazole can interact with alcohol to produce a disulfiram-like reaction. This reaction can include flushing, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and headaches. This occurs because metronidazole inhibits the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase, which is responsible for metabolizing acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism. When alcohol is consumed, acetaldehyde accumulates, leading to these uncomfortable symptoms.
2. Duration of Avoidance: It is recommended that clients avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours after completing a course of metronidazole. This precaution helps to prevent any lingering effects of the medication and the associated discomfort.
3. Medication Administration: While other aspects of medication management are also important, they are less critical compared to the alcohol interaction. For instance, metronidazole does not need to be refrigerated; it should be stored at room temperature. There is no requirement to drink a liter of water daily specifically due to metronidazole use, though staying well-hydrated is generally beneficial. The timing of administration relative to meals is not a major concern, though it can be taken with or without food as tolerated.
4. Impact on Treatment: Advising clients to avoid alcohol ensures that they do not experience unpleasant side effects and helps to maintain the effectiveness of the treatment regimen.
Overall, the primary teaching point for clients taking metronidazole is to completely avoid alcohol to prevent adverse reactions and ensure successful treatment of their infection.