A patient administers interferon beta-1a SQ [Rebif] 22 mcg/0.5 mL three times each week. The patient calls the nurse to report unrelieved itching and erythema at the injection site,despite the use of topical hydrocortisone for several weeks. What will the nurse tell this patient to do?
A) Apply ice to the injection site before and after the injection.
B) Ask the provider to reduce the dose of interferon beta to 8.8 mcg/0.2 mL.
C) Discuss using a prescription-strength hydrocortisone product with the provider.
D) Take oral diphenhydramine [Benadryl].

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Oral diphenhydramine can help reduce itching and erythema. Ice is used to control pain and should be used before the injection; warm,moist compresses are used after the injection. Reducing the dose of interferon will not reduce the local reaction. Continuous use of topical steroids is not recommended because of the risk of skin damage.

A Patient Administers Interferon Beta-1a SQ [Rebif] 22 Mcg/0