A homeless client with streptococcal pharyngitis is being seen in a clinic. The nurse is concerned that the client will not continue treatment after leaving the clinic. Which of the following measures is the highest priority?
a) Administer one intramuscular injection of penicillin.
b) Ask an accompanying homeless friend to monitor the client's follow-up.
c) Provide emphatic oral instructions for the client.
d) Provide the client with oral penicillin that will last for 5 days.
Answer: a) Administer one intramuscular injection of penicillin.
Explanation:
If a nurse is concerned that a client may not perform follow-up treatment for streptococcal pharyngitis, the highest priority is to administer penicillin as a one-time injection dose. Oral penicillin is as effective and less painful, but the client needs to take the full course of treatment to prevent antibiotic-resistant germs from developing. The nurse should provide oral and written instructions for the client, but this is not as high a priority as administering the penicillin. Having a homeless friend monitor the client's care does not ensure that the client will follow therapy. pg.547
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