A patient is being treated for active tuberculosis with ethambutol (Myambutol). The patient states to the nurse that he cannot identify the red and green on the traffic lights when he is driving. Based on this finding, what medical intervention is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) Assess for photosensitivity. Ethambutol can cause optic neuritis, leading to visual disturbances such as difficulty differentiating red and green colors. By assessing for photosensitivity, the healthcare provider can monitor for any signs of optic neuritis and take appropriate action. Option B) Discontinuing ethambutol may be necessary if severe optic neuritis develops, but this decision should be made after a thorough assessment by a healthcare provider. Option C) Decreasing the ethambutol dose may not address the visual disturbances and could potentially compromise the effectiveness of the tuberculosis treatment. Option D) Administering vitamin B does not directly address the visual disturbances caused by ethambutol; therefore, it is not the most appropriate intervention in this case. Educationally, understanding the adverse effects of medications like ethambutol is crucial for healthcare providers to provide safe and effective care to patients. Recognizing and addressing medication side effects promptly can prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. This case highlights the importance of monitoring for adverse drug reactions and taking appropriate actions based on assessment findings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and antifungal therapy, the correct answer is C) 4 to 12 weeks for the treatment duration of a severe fungal infection with amphotericin B. This extended treatment period is necessary due to the nature of fungal infections, which often require prolonged therapy to completely eradicate the infection and prevent recurrence. Option A) 1 to 2 weeks is too short for the treatment of a severe fungal infection as fungal infections typically require longer durations of therapy for effective treatment. Option B) 3 to 6 weeks is also insufficient for severe fungal infections, as these infections can be stubborn and resistant to treatment, necessitating a longer course of therapy. Option D) 15 to 18 weeks is excessively long for most fungal infections and may lead to unnecessary drug exposure and potential adverse effects without added benefit. Educationally, it is important for students to understand the rationale behind the duration of treatment for fungal infections with amphotericin B to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Understanding the need for prolonged therapy in fungal infections can help students make informed decisions in clinical practice and provide effective patient care based on evidence-based pharmacological principles.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, option C is correct, which states that the nurse should avoid administering the fluconazole through a peripheral IV. The rationale behind this is that fluconazole is an irritant to veins and can cause phlebitis or thrombophlebitis if administered through a peripheral IV line. It is recommended to administer fluconazole through a central venous catheter to reduce the risk of venous irritation and potential complications. Option A is incorrect because lactated Ringer's is not specifically indicated or contraindicated for the administration of fluconazole. Option B is also incorrect as there is no specific maximum infusion rate mentioned for fluconazole, but it should be administered at a rate that is safe and appropriate for the patient. Option D is incorrect as there is no requirement for prophylactic heparin administration prior to fluconazole infusion. From an educational perspective, understanding the appropriate administration route and potential side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to ensure safe and effective patient care. It is important to be aware of best practices in medication administration to prevent complications and promote positive patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse would determine the efficacy of mebendazole treatment for roundworm by referencing liver enzymes. Mebendazole is an anthelmintic medication commonly used to treat parasitic infections like roundworm. The rationale behind checking liver enzymes is that mebendazole can cause hepatotoxicity as a rare adverse effect. By monitoring liver enzymes, the nurse can assess if the medication is causing any liver damage, ensuring the child's safety during treatment. Option B, stool for ova and parasites, is used to diagnose the presence of parasites in the stool before treatment initiation, not to monitor treatment efficacy. Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy (Option C) and rectal swab for culture (Option D) are invasive procedures not typically used to assess the effectiveness of anthelmintic treatment in cases of roundworm. In an educational context, understanding the rationale for monitoring liver enzymes during anthelmintic therapy emphasizes the importance of medication safety and the need for appropriate monitoring to prevent or detect adverse effects. It also highlights the significance of selecting the right diagnostic tests to evaluate treatment outcomes accurately, thus promoting evidence-based and patient-centered care in pharmacology practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is D) Pharyngeal efferent neurons. These neurons are responsible for controlling the muscles involved in swallowing and moving the head from side to side. When a nursing student has difficulty moving her head from side to side, it indicates a problem with the pharyngeal efferent neurons specifically. Option A) General visceral efferent neurons are responsible for innervating smooth muscles and glands. They are not directly involved in controlling head movements. Option B) Preganglionic neurons are part of the autonomic nervous system and are involved in transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the ganglia. They are not directly related to head movements. Option C) Parasympathetic postganglionic neurons are involved in the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, controlling rest and digest functions. They are not responsible for head movements. Educationally, understanding the function of different types of neurons is crucial for nursing students as it helps them identify and address neurological issues effectively in patients. This knowledge is essential for providing safe and competent care to individuals experiencing problems related to neuronal function.