A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is taking allopurinol about the risk for developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome. For which of the following manifestations should the nurse instruct the client to monitor and report?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Tinnitus with ear pain: While tinnitus can be a side effect of some medications, it is not associated with Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS). This symptom is more common with other medications or conditions, like aspirin or certain antibiotics, but not allopurinol. B. Diplopia: Diplopia (double vision) is not a common sign of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This symptom could be related to other conditions but is not characteristic of SJS. C. Hyperreflexia: Hyperreflexia is not a typical manifestation of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. While neurological symptoms may sometimes occur, they are not central to the diagnosis of SJS. D. Skin rash with fever: A skin rash with fever is a classic early sign of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. It is a potentially life-threatening reaction to certain medications, including allopurinol, and requires immediate medical attention. The rash often begins with a mild erythema, which may progress to blistering and sloughing of the skin.