Which instruction should the nurse give when teaching about methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis?

When teaching about methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis, advising the patient to report any temperature increases to their healthcare provider is particularly important. Methotrexate can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infections, which can manifest as a fever. Early reporting of any fever can help to address potential risks promptly and ensure appropriate monitoring and intervention.

Temperature increases could indicate an infection, which is a significant concern because methotrexate can lead to leukopenia (reduced white blood cell count). Managing these potential complications by encouraging patients to be alert to changes in their health is a critical aspect of medication safety and management in the context of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. This proactive approach helps in preventing more severe complications that could arise from undetected infections in an immunocompromised state.