Which of the following is a side effect that a nurse should monitor for when a client is on rifabutin?

When a client is receiving rifabutin, monitoring for signs of hepatitis is critical due to the potential hepatotoxic effects of the medication. Rifabutin is an antibiotic used primarily to treat Mycobacterial infections, including tuberculosis, and it can affect liver function. Hepatotoxicity may manifest through symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and elevated liver enzymes in blood tests.

Early detection of liver-related side effects allows for timely intervention, which might involve discontinuing the medication, conducting further assessment, or initiating supportive care. While other side effects may occur with rifabutin, such as allergic reactions or gastrointestinal disturbances, vigilant observation for hepatitis is particularly important given the seriousness of liver damage and its potentially life-threatening consequences. Thus, recognizing the signs of hepatitis can facilitate prompt medical action to protect the patient's health.