Which of the following types of patients are more vulnerable to drug toxicity?
Immunocompromised patients
Immunocompetent patients
Infants and elderly patients
Patients who have allergic reactions
The Correct Answer is A
A. Immunocompromised patients:
Immunocompromised patients, whose immune systems are weakened or impaired, are indeed more vulnerable to drug toxicity. This vulnerability can be due to factors such as decreased ability to metabolize and eliminate drugs, increased susceptibility to infections and opportunistic pathogens, and impaired organ function, particularly in the liver and kidneys, which are involved in drug metabolism and excretion.
B. Immunocompetent patients:
Immunocompetent patients have normal immune function and are generally less vulnerable to drug toxicity compared to immunocompromised individuals. However, susceptibility to drug toxicity can still vary depending on factors such as age, underlying health conditions, renal and hepatic function, and concurrent use of other medications.
C. Infants and elderly patients:
Infants and elderly patients are more vulnerable to drug toxicity due to factors such as immature or declining organ function, altered drug metabolism and elimination, and differences in body composition. In infants, organ systems are still developing, while in elderly patients, age-related changes can affect drug pharmacokinetics and increase the risk of adverse reactions.
D. Patients who have allergic reactions:
Patients who have allergic reactions may experience adverse drug reactions if they are exposed to the offending medication again. However, this does not necessarily make them more vulnerable to drug toxicity in general. Allergic reactions are specific immune responses and differ from drug toxicity, which can occur due to various mechanisms unrelated to allergies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Kanamycin (Kantrex):
Kanamycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic, but it is not commonly used as a first-line treatment for MRSA infections. Aminoglycosides are not typically preferred for treating MRSA because they are not as effective against these resistant bacteria compared to other agents like vancomycin.
B. Vancomycin:
Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic and is considered the drug of choice for the treatment of MRSA infections, including serious bloodstream infections, pneumonia, and skin and soft tissue infections. It works by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, including MRSA.
C. Streptomycin:
Streptomycin is another aminoglycoside antibiotic, similar to kanamycin. Like kanamycin, streptomycin is not typically used as a first-line treatment for MRSA infections because it is less effective against resistant strains compared to other agents like vancomycin.
D. Penicillin:
Penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics are ineffective against MRSA because MRSA is resistant to these antibiotics, including methicillin. Therefore, penicillin would not be an appropriate choice for treating MRSA infections.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Penicillins:
Penicillins are a class of antibiotics commonly used to treat various bacterial infections. While they are generally well-tolerated and have a low incidence of adverse effects, they are not typically associated with cartilage toxicity or tendon rupture, including the Achilles tendon.
B. Fluoroquinolones:
Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum antibiotics known for their effectiveness against a wide range of bacteria. However, they are associated with several significant adverse effects, including cartilage toxicity and tendon rupture. These adverse effects, particularly tendon rupture, are most commonly observed in weight-bearing tendons such as the Achilles tendon. Fluoroquinolones should be used cautiously, especially in populations at higher risk for tendon injuries.
C. Aminoglycosides:
Aminoglycosides are another class of antibiotics used to treat severe bacterial infections. While they have their own set of potential adverse effects, such as nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, they are not associated with cartilage toxicity or tendon rupture.
D. Sulfonamides:
Sulfonamides are antibiotics that inhibit bacterial growth by interfering with the synthesis of folate. While they can cause various adverse effects, including skin reactions and hematologic abnormalities, they are not associated with cartilage toxicity or tendon rupture.
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