What nursing diagnosis should home health nurses prioritize when administering azoles in the home setting?

Prioritizing the nursing diagnosis of "Risk for infection related to antifungal therapy" is critical when administering azoles in the home setting due to the underlying mechanism of action of these medications. Azoles, such as fluconazole or itraconazole, are antifungal agents that work by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. This action helps to control and eliminate fungal infections, but it can also lead to alterations in the patient’s normal flora and a potential imbalance in the immune system's ability to ward off infections.

When patients are undergoing antifungal therapy, especially in cases where systemic treatment is required, their immunity may be compromised, increasing their susceptibility to secondary infections. Home health nurses must be vigilant in monitoring for any signs of infection, which could manifest as fever, increased white blood cell count, or localized signs such as redness and swelling.

This nursing diagnosis takes precedence over the others because ensuring the patient does not develop a new infection is essential to their overall health and recovery, especially considering the potential for azole-related side effects, interactions with other medications, and the need for careful monitoring of the patient's overall condition during treatment. Each patient's unique situation will dictate the clinically appropriate priorities; however, a proactive