A patient has recently been prescribed tetracycline for the treatment of acne vulgaris. The nurse should include which of the following in her teaching plan?

"Wear sunscreen during prolonged exposure to sunlight."

Explanation

• A common side effect of tetracycline is photosensitivity. The patient should be instructed to apply sunscreen before being exposed to the sun.

Incorrect options:

• Tetracycline should not be taken with food or dairy products. It should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals or snacks, and with a full glass of water with each dose.

• Tetracycline is pregnancy category X and should not be taken while pregnant. The FDA places a drug in category X when studies confirm fetal abnormalities associated with its use and the risks involved for pregnant women clearly outweigh the benefits.

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