The nurse who is working in a pediatric unit administers tetracycline [Sumycin] to a preschool-age child. What is a potential adverse effect of the medication for this child?
Discoloration of teeth
Anabolic change
Cartilage damage
Suppression of growth
The Correct Answer is A
A. Discoloration of teeth: Tetracycline antibiotics can bind with calcium ions in teeth, leading to the development of yellow-gray-brown stains. This effect is particularly significant in developing teeth in children below the age of 8 and can result in permanent discoloration.
B. Anabolic change: This term doesn't specifically relate to the side effects of tetracycline. "Anabolic" generally refers to processes in the body that build up complex molecules from simpler ones. There's no direct connection between tetracycline and anabolic changes.
C. Cartilage damage: Tetracyclines, especially in high doses or with prolonged use, have been associated with potential adverse effects on cartilage. This is more relevant in individuals whose bones and cartilage are still growing, such as children. It can interfere with skeletal development.
D. Suppression of growth: Long-term use of tetracycline in children can interfere with bone growth and development. It can suppress the growth of bones and affect overall height. This is a significant concern when considering the use of tetracycline in pediatric patients.
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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 B
Explanation
A. Antibiotics are prescribed according to culture and sensitivity reports:
When antibiotics are prescribed based on specific tests like cultures and sensitivity reports, it ensures that the right antibiotic is chosen for the specific bacteria causing the infection. This practice helps in targeting the infection more effectively, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.
B. Patients stop taking an antibiotic after they feel better:
This scenario is problematic. When patients start feeling better, they might assume the infection is completely gone and stop taking antibiotics before the prescribed course is finished. This premature discontinuation can leave some bacteria alive, which may develop resistance to the antibiotic used. This practice is a significant contributor to antibiotic resistance.
C. Antibiotics are taken with ascorbic acid (vitamin C):
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) doesn't have a significant impact on antibiotic resistance. It is not a factor contributing to antibiotic resistance.
D. Antibiotics are taken with water or juice:
Whether antibiotics are taken with water or juice doesn’t directly influence antibiotic resistance. Proper hydration is essential to support the body's overall health, but it doesn't impact the development of antibiotic resistance.
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