A patient with TB is undergoing initial therapy in the treatment.
The nurse has to administer three or more drugs in combination to the patient.
The patient wishes to know the reason for administering a combination of drugs.
Which of the following explanations does the nurse offer related to the combination of medications?

Choice A rationale:

The initial phase of treatment in tuberculosis management involves the first few weeks of intensive drug therapy when the goal is to reduce the bacterial load and prevent drug resistance. During this phase, the client typically takes multiple medications, but there is no requirement for direct observation by a healthcare provider.

Choice B rationale:

The continuation phase of treatment occurs after the initial phase in tuberculosis management. It focuses on preventing relapse and the complete eradication of the bacteria. During this phase, the client takes fewer medications, but there is no direct observation of medication administration.

Choice C rationale:

Directly observed therapy (DOT) is a strategy used in tuberculosis treatment where a healthcare provider or trained observer directly watches the client take their medications. This is particularly important to ensure adherence and prevent drug resistance. The description in the question aligns with the practice of DOT.

Choice D rationale:

Adherence evaluation refers to assessing how well a client follows their treatment plan, but it doesn't necessarily involve observing medication administration. While adherence evaluation is essential, the scenario described in the question specifically mentions the client demonstrating medication intake in front of a nurse, which corresponds to DOT.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring for the appearance of adverse reactions is a crucial aspect of managing a patient with TB undergoing treatment. TB medications can have side effects, and early detection of adverse reactions is essential for timely intervention. Some common adverse effects of TB drugs include hepatotoxicity, peripheral neuropathy, and gastrointestinal disturbances. By closely monitoring the patient, the nurse can ensure prompt action if these side effects occur, improving the patient's overall care and safety.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring the patient's vital signs every 24 hours may be part of standard nursing care, but when managing a patient with TB, the primary focus should be on monitoring for adverse reactions to the TB medications. Vital signs are important but not the most critical aspect of care in this specific situation.

Choice C rationale:

Assessing the patient's history of contacts is essential for identifying potential sources of TB transmission. However, it is more related to the initial assessment and diagnosis of TB rather than ongoing assessment during treatment. The primary focus during treatment is monitoring the patient's response to medication and any adverse reactions.

Choice D rationale:

Using Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) to administer TB drugs is a standard practice to ensure treatment adherence. However, ongoing assessment should focus on monitoring for adverse reactions and treatment effectiveness rather than the administration method, which is usually established at the beginning of treatment.