Oral contraceptives

Laura, a 20-year-old college student, went to the health department for oral contraceptives. Laura asks the nurse how to take the medication and wants to know the adverse effects of oral contraceptives.

• What should the nurse assess for prior to the physician prescribing oral contraceptives?
• How would the nurse respond to Laura’s questions?

One month later, she started on oral antibiotics for acute bronchitis. She has taken her antibiotics for one week and she now has a vaginal yeast infection. She continues to take the oral contraceptives as scheduled.

• How did Laura develop a vaginal yeast infection?
• What medication might be prescribed for a vaginal yeast infection? Discuss the adverse effects of this medication?
• What patient teachings should the nurse provide while the patient is taking these medications?