Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) Practice Exam

Anti-infective agents, which include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics, often cause a variety of side effects. One common potential side effect is the development of a rash. This can occur due to allergic reactions to the medication or as a result of the drug's effects on the body's microbiome or immune response. In many cases, rashes can range from mild to severe and may require the discontinuation of the medication, especially if they indicate a more serious condition such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

While other options listed can also occur with certain medications, a rash is more widely recognized and documented as a side effect specifically associated with the use of anti-infective agents. Bradycardia, orthostatic hypotension, and constipation are less frequently linked to these types of medications. It's important for healthcare providers to monitor patients for skin reactions when they are prescribed anti-infectives and to educate patients on recognizing these symptoms.