The patient has been prescribed Synthroid 400 mcg pills to be taken orally. The pills supplied are 0.4 mg each.
How many pills should be administered?

Choice A rationale:

Debridement refers to the removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue to promote healing. It is not a term used to describe skin breakdown caused by moisture.

Choice B rationale:

Evisceration is the protrusion of internal organs through a wound or surgical incision. It is not relevant to the condition of perineal skin breakdown due to wetness.

Choice D rationale:

Dehiscence is the separation of a surgical wound. It is not applicable in this case, as there is no mention of a surgical wound.

Choice C rationale:

Maceration is a term used to describe skin that has become softened and broken down due to prolonged exposure to moisture. This is the most accurate term to describe the condition of perineal skin breakdown after sitting in wet underclothes for many hours.

Key features of maceration:

Skin softening: The skin becomes white and wrinkled, resembling a prune.

Epidermal loss: The outer layer of skin (epidermis) may slough off, leaving the underlying tissue exposed. Redness: The affected area may become red and inflamed.

Pain or tenderness: The area may be painful or tender to the touch.

Increased risk of infection: Macerated skin is more susceptible to infection due to the breakdown of the skin barrier. Causes of maceration:

Prolonged exposure to moisture: This can include sweat, urine, feces, wound drainage, or excessive bathing. Friction: Rubbing or chafing of the skin can also contribute to maceration.

Impaired circulation: Poor blood flow to the area can make it more vulnerable to maceration. Prevention of maceration:

Keep skin clean and dry: This is the most important step in preventing maceration. Change wet or soiled clothing or dressings promptly.

Apply barrier creams or ointments: These can help to protect the skin from moisture.

Use incontinence products: These can help to keep the skin dry if the patient is incontinent. Reposition the patient frequently: This helps to reduce pressure and friction on the skin.

Step 1: Convert the prescribed dose to milligrams. 400 mcg = 0.4 mg (since 1 mg = 1000 mcg)

Step 2: Compare the prescribed dose to the pill strength. The prescribed dose is 0.4 mg.

The pill strength is 0.4 mg.

Step 3: Determine the number of pills needed.

Since the prescribed dose and pill strength are equal, only one pill is needed to administer the correct dose.

Rationale for Choice A:

Correct: One pill of 0.4 mg will provide the exact dose of 400 mcg that has been prescribed.

Direct match: The pill strength matches the prescribed dose, eliminating the need for any calculations or adjustments.

Therapeutic equivalence: Administering one pill ensures that the patient receives the intended amount of medication to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

Adherence to prescription: Conforms to the healthcare provider's instructions, promoting accurate and safe medication administration.