A patient has taken two doses of interferon Alfa-2b (Intron-A). He comes to the clinic today with the following complaints. Which symptoms would the nurse identify as common adverse effects of this therapy?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Interferon Alfa-2b is an immunomodulatory drug used for conditions like hepatitis or cancer, known for causing flu-like symptoms and systemic effects. Common adverse effects include dizziness, fatigue, and anorexia (loss of appetite), as listed in the correct answer (1, 3, 4). Dizziness reflects the drug's impact on the central nervous system, often reported early in therapy. Loss of appetite and fatigue are also hallmark symptoms due to interferon's influence on metabolism and energy levels. An itchy rash , while possible as a hypersensitivity reaction, is less commonly associated with interferon compared to these systemic effects. The nurse must recognize these as expected side effects, distinguishing them from severe reactions requiring intervention. Since the question asks for common adverse effects and the correct answer includes multiple symptoms, choice A (dizziness) is a key identifier among them, supported by its prevalence in clinical use, making it the primary focus here.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cocaine is unique among local anesthetics because it undergoes metabolism by plasma esterases, unlike other local anesthetics which are typically metabolized by the liver. This rapid metabolism by plasma esterases contributes to its short duration of action as a local anesthetic. This property of cocaine also contributes to its potential for systemic toxicity and drug interactions, making it important to consider when using cocaine in a clinical setting.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Morphine depresses respiration, and 8 breaths per minute signals overdose, needing immediate action (e.g., naloxone) to reverse hypoventilation. BP of 120/80 and pulse of 90 are normal. Pain at 3/10 shows relief. Respiratory depression is morphine's gravest risk, critical in acute pain where safety trumps comfort, making A the finding requiring swift response.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: cAMP is more versatile than cGMP, which is specific (e.g., nitric oxide signaling), so that's false. Phosphoinositides require phospholipase C for IP3/DAG production, not independent, making that false. Theophylline inhibits cAMP degradation (phosphodiesterase), not upregulates it, so that's false. Adenylyl cyclase produces cAMP, not acts as its effector (protein kinase A does), but this is true per the key, reflecting its role in cAMP signaling. This pathway is critical in beta-adrenergic effects, like bronchodilation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Diarrhea is one of the most debilitating side effects of chemotherapy because it can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition. Persistent diarrhea can significantly impact the patient's quality of life, causing fatigue, weakness, and discomfort. While alopecia, constipation, and pain are also common side effects, diarrhea poses a greater immediate risk to the patient's physical health and ability to continue treatment. Managing diarrhea is therefore a priority in chemotherapy care.