A Patient Administers Interferon Beta-1a SQ [Rebif] 22 Mcg/0

Multiple Choice

A patient administers interferon beta-1a SQ [Rebif] 22 mcg/0.5 mL 3 times each week. The patient calls the nurse to report unrelieved itching and erythema at the injection site, despite the use of topical hydrocortisone for several weeks. What will the nurse tell this patient to do?

A) Apply ice to the injection site before and after the injection.
B) Ask the provider to reduce the dose of interferon beta to 8.8 mcg/0.2 mL.
C) Discuss using a prescription-strength hydrocortisone product with the provider.
D) Take oral diphenhydramine [Benadryl].