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 A
Explanation
A. "Tetracycline inhibits protein synthesis."
Explanation: Tetracycline antibiotics interfere with bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the bacterial ribosomes. This binding prevents the attachment of transfer RNA (tRNA) to the messenger RNA (mRNA) complex, effectively inhibiting the production of proteins that are crucial for bacterial growth and replication.
B. "Tetracycline blocks RNA synthesis."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline primarily affects protein synthesis, not RNA synthesis. It doesn't block the creation of RNA molecules in bacteria.
C. "Tetracycline degrades the bacterial cell wall."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline antibiotics do not target bacterial cell walls. Agents like penicillins and cephalosporins are examples of antibiotics that disrupt bacterial cell walls.
D. "Tetracycline binds to magnesium ions."
Explanation: This statement is incorrect. Tetracycline does bind to certain metal ions, but it's not primarily through magnesium ions. The binding to bacterial ribosomes is a key mechanism of action for tetracyclines.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Reddened tongue and gums: This side effect is not typically associated with ampicillin. However, certain medications or medical conditions can cause changes in oral tissues, leading to redness in the tongue and gums.
B. Digit numbness and tingling: Ampicillin does not commonly cause numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes. These symptoms can be associated with neurological issues or circulatory problems.
C. Bruising and petechiae: These symptoms can indicate bleeding disorders or low platelet count and are not usually caused by ampicillin. It's essential to investigate further if a patient experiences unexplained bruising or petechiae.
D. Skin rash and loose stools: Skin rash is a known side effect of penicillin-type antibiotics, including ampicillin. Loose stools or diarrhea can also occur due to disruption of the gut flora caused by the antibiotic. Patients should be aware of these possibilities and report any severe or persistent symptoms to their healthcare provider.
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