A patient has been ordered azithromycin [Zithromax] and asks the nurse why the medication does not have to be taken as often as other antibiotics that have previously been ordered. What is the nurse's best response?
"This drug has a longer duration of action than some of the other antibiotics."
"This is a much more effective drug than what you received previously."
"I'll call the pharmacy and ask about the chemical makeup of the drug."
"You'll need to ask your healthcare provider questions like that."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "This drug has a longer duration of action than some of the other antibiotics."
Explanation: Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, has a longer half-life in the body compared to some other antibiotics. Half-life refers to the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. A longer half-life means the drug remains effective for a longer duration, allowing for less frequent dosing.
B. "This is a much more effective drug than what you received previously."
Explanation: While azithromycin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, it's not accurate to say it's universally more effective than other antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic depends on the specific type of infection and the susceptibility of the bacteria causing it. Effectiveness varies based on the context of use.
C. "I'll call the pharmacy and ask about the chemical makeup of the drug."
Explanation: While understanding the chemical makeup of drugs is important for healthcare professionals, it might not directly answer the patient's question about the dosing frequency. Explaining the drug's pharmacological properties, such as its duration of action, would provide a more relevant and understandable response to the patient's query.
D. "You'll need to ask your healthcare provider questions like that."
Explanation: This response does not provide the patient with the information they seek. Nurses are valuable resources for medication-related questions and should strive to provide accurate and understandable explanations to patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Allergic reaction: An allergic reaction can manifest in various ways, including rash, itching, and difficulty breathing. However, the specific symptoms described, along with the context of vancomycin administration, point to red man syndrome in this case.
Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis is a condition where damaged muscle tissue breaks down and releases a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream. This can cause kidney damage, but the symptoms described do not align with rhabdomyolysis.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome: Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a severe skin reaction that can cause skin and mucous membranes to blister, peel, and can be life-threatening. While it can present with rash and other skin symptoms, the symptoms mentioned in the scenario are more characteristic of red man syndrome.
Red man syndrome: As mentioned earlier, red man syndrome is an allergic reaction to vancomycin characterized by flushing, rash, pruritus, and urticaria (hives), along with rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. It is specific to vancomycin and can be prevented or minimized by slowing down the infusion rate and administering antihistamines.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. IgE (Immunoglobulin E): This class of antibodies is primarily involved in hypersensitivity reactions Type I, which are immediate allergic reactions. When a person is exposed to an allergen they are sensitive to, IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells and basophils bind to the allergen. This triggers the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine, leading to allergic symptoms such as itching, hives, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
B. IgA (Immunoglobulin A): IgA antibodies are primarily found in mucosal areas such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. They play a role in immune defense on mucosal surfaces and are important for preventing infections. While IgA is not directly associated with hypersensitivity reactions Type I, deficiencies in IgA can sometimes lead to increased susceptibility to certain infections.
C. IgG (Immunoglobulin G): IgG antibodies are the most common type of antibody in the bloodstream and are involved in various immune responses, including defense against bacterial and viral infections. IgG antibodies are not specific to Type I hypersensitivity reactions; they are part of the immune system's broader defense mechanisms.
D. IgM (Immunoglobulin M): IgM antibodies are the first antibodies to be produced in response to an infection. They are large pentameric molecules and are effective at agglutinating pathogens. IgM antibodies are involved in the primary immune response to infections, but they are not specifically associated with Type I hypersensitivity reactions.
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