A patient calls the clinic in November to report a temperature of 103° F, headache, a nonproductive cough, and muscle aches. The patient reports feeling well earlier that day. The nurse will schedule the patient to see the provider and will expect the provider to order which medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is exhibiting symptoms of influenza, so the provider is likely to prescribe oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu), which is an antiviral medication used to treat influenza. Amantadine HCl (Symmetrel) is also an antiviral medication used to treat influenza, but it is now less commonly used due to increasing resistance. Influenza vaccine is a preventive measure and not a treatment option for an active infection. Over-the-counter drugs can be used for symptomatic treatment, but antiviral medication is recommended in patients with confirmed or suspected influenza.

A Patient Calls the Clinic in November to Report a Temperature