When caring for an adolescent patient, what should the nurse do after administering ceftriaxone?

When caring for an adolescent patient after administering ceftriaxone, reinforcing education about safe sex practices is particularly crucial. This antibiotic is often used to treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which are prevalent among adolescents. By discussing safe sex practices, the nurse addresses potential future health issues and promotes a holistic approach to the adolescent's health. This education can empower the patient to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health, which is essential during this developmental stage.

While documentation of medication administration is an important aspect of nursing care, it is typically performed immediately after the administration and doesn't directly relate to the specific context of caring for an adolescent post-treatment. Similarly, while prescribing a follow-up appointment can be important for ongoing care, it does not provide immediate support or education directly related to the reason for administering ceftriaxone. Providing pain relief measures may be necessary based on the patient’s condition, but again, reinforcing safe sex practices is particularly relevant in the context of administering this specific medication.