What should the nurse advise a client regarding the storage of leftover antibiotics?

The recommendation to advise clients that all leftover medications should be disposed of safely is rooted in the principles of medication safety, efficacy, and public health. Antibiotics, in particular, are crucial for treating infections, and their improper storage or reuse can lead to several issues.

First, medications can degrade over time, losing their potency and effectiveness. This means that leftover antibiotics may not be effective when needed for future infections. Additionally, improperly stored antibiotics can become contaminated or can change chemically, posing risks to the patient’s health.

Moreover, there is a risk of contributing to antibiotic resistance if individuals take leftover antibiotics for incorrect or unapproved uses. Using antibiotics without a healthcare provider's guidance can lead to suboptimal treatment, side effects, or the development of resistant bacterial strains, which is a growing concern in public health.

Disposing of unused medications properly ensures that they do not end up in the hands of others who might misuse them, and it helps to mitigate potential environmental contamination. Healthcare providers encourage patients to return unused medications to pharmacies or participating health systems that offer safe disposal programs.