What is an adverse effect that a nurse should inform a patient prescribed ciprofloxacin to watch for?

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that is commonly used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. One of the notable adverse effects associated with ciprofloxacin is phototoxicity. This condition occurs when the medication increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, leading to an increased risk of sunburn or skin reactions upon exposure to ultraviolet rays. Patients who are taking ciprofloxacin should be advised to limit their sun exposure, wear protective clothing or use sunscreen, and to be vigilant for any signs of skin irritation or unusual burns.

While other options like increased appetite, constipation, and cardiac arrhythmias can be associated with various medications, they are not commonly linked with ciprofloxacin. Increased appetite is not typically a side effect of antibiotics; constipation could occur but is not a primary concern; whereas cardiac arrhythmias are generally more associated with other drug classes or conditions. Thus, the focus on phototoxicity is important in providing comprehensive care and ensuring patient safety while on ciprofloxacin.