What should a nurse do if a patient develops a rash after taking a new medication?

When a patient develops a rash after taking a new medication, the priority is to ensure patient safety and assess the potential severity of the reaction. Stopping the medication and notifying the healthcare provider is the appropriate response because it addresses the immediate concern of a possible allergic reaction or side effect that could escalate to something more serious, such as anaphylaxis.

By halting the medication, the nurse prevents further exposure to the potential allergen while the healthcare provider can evaluate the situation and determine the next steps. Communication with the healthcare provider is essential for guiding future treatment and considering alternative medications. This approach ensures that the patient receives appropriate care tailored to their immediate needs and long-term health considerations.

Choosing to continue the medication could lead to a worsening of the rash or more severe reactions. Ignoring the rash might expose the patient to unnecessary risk, and applying topical steroids without professional guidance could mask symptoms or complicate the clinical picture, making it difficult to assess the patient's true condition. Thus, stopping the medication and notifying the healthcare provider is the most responsible course of action.