A patient taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) to treat a urinary tract infection complains of a sore throat. The nurse will contact the provider to request an order for which laboratory test(s)?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

TMP-SMX can cause bone marrow suppression, resulting in decreased white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells, and platelets. A complete blood count with differential will evaluate the patient's WBC count and identify any potential bone marrow suppression. A throat culture may be ordered if the sore throat is suspected to be bacterial in nature, but it is not directly related to the potential side effects of TMP-SMX. A urinalysis may have initially been ordered to diagnose the urinary tract infection but is not necessary for evaluating a sore throat. Coagulation studies are not indicated for a sore throat or as a potential side effect of TMP-SMX.

A Patient Taking Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) to Treat a Urinary Tract