A patient with a skin infection is prescribed cephalexin (an antibiotic)500 mg orally q 12 hours.The patient complains that the last time he took this medication,he had frequent episodes of loose stools.Which recommendation should the nurse make to the patient?

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Antibiotics such as cephalexin,given to combat infection,decrease the normal flora in the colon that cause diarrhea.The patient should avoid highly spiced,high-fat foods and large quantities of raw fruits,which tend to cause even more diarrhea.Yogurt is recommended daily,for as long as the antibiotic is being taken.Diarrhea is a common adverse effect of antibiotics; therefore,stopping the drug is not necessary or advisable.The patient should not be encouraged to take an antidiarrheal agent at this time.Increasing the intake of fiber combats constipation,not diarrhea.

A Patient with a Skin Infection Is Prescribed Cephalexin (An