If a client is prescribed disulfiram, which statement indicates a need for further teaching?

If a client is prescribed disulfiram, which statement indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I must be cautious in taking cold medicines
• B. I will check my food if it contains vinegar
• C. I need to use a mouthwash before taking disulfiram
• D. I need to be careful in using aftershave lotions

Answer: (C)

Disulfiram is a medication used to support the treatment of chronic alcohol dependence by producing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed. One of the critical aspects of disulfiram therapy involves avoiding any substances that contain alcohol, as these can interact with the medication and cause adverse reactions. Saying that a client needs to use a mouthwash before taking disulfiram is concerning because many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which could lead to a negative reaction. It is essential for patients taking disulfiram to understand that they need to avoid all products containing alcohol, which includes not just beverages but also certain medications, foods, and personal care products. The other statements reflect an appropriate understanding of the precautions needed while taking disulfiram. Cold medicines often contain alcohol, which is why caution is necessary. Foods that may contain vinegar can also have trace amounts of alcohol; hence, checking before consumption is prudent. Additionally, aftershave lotions may contain alcohol, necessitating careful use. Overall, recognizing that disulfiram requires strict avoidance of any alcohol-containing products is critical for patient safety and effective treatment.

Disulfiram is a medication used to support the treatment of chronic alcohol dependence by producing unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed. One of the critical aspects of disulfiram therapy involves avoiding any substances that contain alcohol, as these can interact with the medication and cause adverse reactions.

Saying that a client needs to use a mouthwash before taking disulfiram is concerning because many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which could lead to a negative reaction. It is essential for patients taking disulfiram to understand that they need to avoid all products containing alcohol, which includes not just beverages but also certain medications, foods, and personal care products.

The other statements reflect an appropriate understanding of the precautions needed while taking disulfiram. Cold medicines often contain alcohol, which is why caution is necessary. Foods that may contain vinegar can also have trace amounts of alcohol; hence, checking before consumption is prudent. Additionally, aftershave lotions may contain alcohol, necessitating careful use. Overall, recognizing that disulfiram requires strict avoidance of any alcohol-containing products is critical for patient safety and effective treatment.