Which recommendation would the nurse provide regarding the handling of unused antibiotics?

Discarding unused antibiotics immediately is the most appropriate recommendation due to the potential risks associated with improper storage and use. Keeping antibiotics for later use can lead to incorrect self-medication, where individuals may misuse them for ailments that do not warrant antibiotic treatment, contributing to antibiotic resistance. Sharing antibiotics with family or friends poses similar risks, as what may have been prescribed for one infection may not be appropriate for another individual's condition and could lead to ineffective treatment or harmful side effects.

Storing antibiotics in a cool place might seem sensible for maintaining their efficacy, but the fundamental issue remains that unused antibiotics should not be saved for future use. Proper disposal helps ensure that medications do not pose a risk to others and prevents environmental contamination. Therefore, the best practice is to dispose of them safely, usually through designated medication take-back programs or following local pharmacy guidelines.