What is a common side effect that nurses should monitor for in clients receiving antifungal agents?

Gastrointestinal upset is a well-recognized side effect associated with many antifungal agents. This can manifest as symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Such side effects are important for nurses to monitor, as they can significantly affect a patient’s comfort level and adherence to the treatment regimen.

For instance, medications like amphotericin B and azoles, including fluconazole and itraconazole, are commonly reported to cause gastrointestinal disturbances. It's crucial for nurses to assess patients regularly and provide supportive care to manage any discomfort that may arise, ensuring that the antifungal therapy can continue effectively without interruption.

Vigilance in monitoring for gastrointestinal upset allows healthcare providers to address these issues promptly, which can enhance patient outcomes and overall satisfaction with therapy. Other side effects, while significant, do not occur as frequently and are generally not as immediately impactful on the patient's daily functioning as gastrointestinal issues.