Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Bactrim as follows:
- Complete the course of the antibiotic that it was prescribed for. Do not give up on the antibiotic, against your doctor’s recommendation, even if the symptoms of infection are controlled.
- Observe compliance with any regular lab work ordered. As Bactrim carries the risk for damage to the liver and kidneys, hepatic function could be periodically monitored, to prevent any risk for toxicity. Watch closely to report any symptoms of itching, jaundice with yellowing of skin and sclera, dark urine, altered metabolism with nausea and vomiting, pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant, and fatigue suggesting damage to the liver.
- Close watch for signs and symptoms of arrhythmias must be maintained in individuals with history of cardiac arrhythmias, as Bactrim has the potential to exacerbate any underlying arrhythmias. Compliance with blood work ordered to monitor serum potassium and magnesium ions is mandatory.
- Bactrim intake can increase the risk for skin rash and photosensitivity. Individuals with history of photosensitivity and taking Bactrim should avoid natural and bright lights or use sunscreens, to prevent any photosensitive responses from developing.
- Evenly space out the doses of the antibiotic and take the dose at the scheduled time every day. Keeping to the schedule helps with maintaining a constant level of the antibiotic in the body, which is needed for infection control. Also, this helps to avoid forgetting the medication.
