The nurse is reviewing discharge instructions with a client going home on linezolid therapy for a vancomycin-resistant enterococcus infection. Which client statement requires further teaching?

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Linezolid (Zyvox) is an oxazolidinone antibiotic prescribed for vancomycin- and methicillin-resistant bacteria, pneumonia, and skin infections. Linezolid has monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)-type properties; concurrent use with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (eg, paroxetine, fluoxetine, sertraline) increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal accumulation of serotonin (Option A). Due to this risk, SSRIs are contraindicated while on linezolid therapy. SSRIs can be resumed 24 hours after linezolid therapy has been discontinued. (Option B) Headaches may be a side effect of linezolid therapy. Acetaminophen is not contraindicated. (Option C) Due to the MAOI-like properties of linezolid, clients should not consume foods or beverages containing tyramine during therapy to avoid adverse effects (eg, severe hypertension). (Option D) Diarrhea is a common adverse effect of linezolid therapy. However, increased diarrhea or fever may indicate a complication from the regimen (eg, serotonin syndrome, Clostridium difficile infection) and should be reported promptly. Educational objective: Linezolid is an antibiotic with monoamine oxidase inhibitor-type properties that is prescribed to treat vancomycin- and methicillin-resistant bacterial infections. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are contraindicated during therapy due to the increased risk of serotonin syndrome.

The Nurse Is Reviewing Discharge Instructions with a Client Going