A patient develops a fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes after receiving a sulfonamide for a urinary tract infection (UTI). The nurse anticipates providing care for which condition?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are indicative of serum sickness, a type III hypersensitivity reaction that can occur as an adverse effect of sulfonamide therapy. Symptoms typically develop 7-14 days after beginning therapy and can include fever, rash, joint and muscle pain, and lymphadenopathy. Worsening of the infection would not present with these symptoms, and respiratory involvement or subacute rheumatoid arthritis are not associated with sulfonamide therapy.

A Patient Develops a Fever, Rash, Joint and Muscle Pain