Bioavailability is:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Bioavailability is a critical concept in pharmacology that refers to the percentage of a drug that reaches the systemic circulation unchanged after administration. Option D, stating that bioavailability is close to 80% for orally administered verapamil, is correct. Verapamil is known to have high oral bioavailability, typically around 80%, making it an effective choice for oral administration. Option A, stating that bioavailability is less than 100% by any route, is incorrect because some drugs can achieve 100% bioavailability through certain routes like intravenous administration where the drug bypasses first-pass metabolism. Option B, stating that bioavailability is the percentage of a drug formulation that is absorbed, is partially correct but not comprehensive. Bioavailability also takes into account factors like the extent of metabolism and excretion of the drug before reaching systemic circulation. Option C, stating that bioavailability is not affected by first-pass metabolism, is incorrect. First-pass metabolism, which occurs when a drug is metabolized by the liver before reaching the systemic circulation, can significantly affect bioavailability, especially for orally administered drugs. Understanding bioavailability is crucial for healthcare professionals to optimize drug therapy, adjust dosages, and choose the most effective routes of administration. It impacts drug efficacy and safety, making it essential knowledge for pharmacists, nurses, and other healthcare providers.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of active immunisation, the correct answer is D) primary immunisation for Haemophilus influenzae type B involves two doses given one month apart. This is because the primary immunisation schedule for Haemophilus influenzae type B typically involves a two-dose series, with the second dose administered one month after the first dose to ensure optimal immunity against the pathogen. Option A) stating that the measles vaccine is an inactivated virus is incorrect because the measles vaccine actually contains a live, attenuated virus to stimulate the immune system without causing the disease. Option B) stating that the hepatitis B vaccine is preferably given by subcutaneous injection is incorrect because the hepatitis B vaccine is typically administered via intramuscular injection for optimal immune response. Option C) stating that booster doses for yellow fever are not required is incorrect because booster doses for yellow fever are recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity, especially for individuals at continued risk of exposure. Understanding the correct administration schedules and types of vaccines is crucial in pharmacology to ensure proper immunisation practices and protect individuals from preventable diseases. Students need to grasp these concepts to provide safe and effective care to patients and contribute to public health efforts.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) have the nurse assess the individual. This option is the most appropriate because it involves seeking further assessment from a healthcare professional to determine the reason behind the disappearance of the rash and whether the continued application of the ointment is necessary. Choosing option A) to stop the treatment without proper assessment could be risky as it may lead to the premature discontinuation of a medication that could still be needed for another reason. Option C) to continue applying the ointment may be unnecessary if the rash has resolved. Option D) to change the medication to a cream is not justified without knowing the reason for the resolution of the rash. From an educational perspective, this question highlights the importance of ongoing assessment and evaluation in pharmacological management. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to not only prescribe medications but also monitor their effectiveness and make informed decisions based on individual patient responses. Encouraging critical thinking in assessing medication efficacy and patient outcomes is crucial in providing safe and effective care in pharmacology practice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of lifespan pharmacology, the correct answer to the question "Which of the following is given for mental depression?" is D) Amitriptyline. This is a tricyclic antidepressant commonly prescribed for depression due to its ability to increase levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help improve mood. Levodopa (option A) is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease to increase dopamine levels in the brain and alleviate symptoms of the condition. Hydrochlorothiazide (option B) is a diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and edema by increasing urine output. Niacin (option C) is a form of vitamin B3 used to treat high cholesterol levels. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to understand the specific indications and mechanisms of action of different medications to ensure safe and effective treatment for patients. In the case of mental depression, selecting the appropriate antidepressant like amitriptyline based on its pharmacological properties and indications is essential for achieving positive outcomes in patients. Understanding these distinctions is vital for healthcare providers working in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community pharmacies, where they play a key role in medication management and patient education.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of lifespan pharmacology, advising an individual who is taking an antihypertensive medication to get up from a laying or sitting position slowly (Option B) is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, antihypertensive medications can cause orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions, leading to dizziness or fainting. By getting up slowly, the individual allows their body time to adjust to the change in position, reducing the risk of falls or injuries. Option A, advising the use of a salt substitute only, is incorrect because antihypertensive medications often work by reducing sodium levels in the body. Adding salt substitutes could counteract the effects of the medication and lead to increased blood pressure. Option C, checking respiratory rate before administering the medication, is not directly related to the safe use of antihypertensive medications. While monitoring vital signs is important in healthcare, it is not specifically relevant to this scenario. Option D, resting every afternoon for a couple of hours, is also incorrect as it does not address the potential side effects or interactions of antihypertensive medications. While rest and relaxation are important for overall health, they do not specifically impact the effectiveness or safety of antihypertensive therapy. In the educational context, understanding the side effects and appropriate management of medications is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients. Teaching individuals about the importance of proper medication use, including lifestyle modifications like getting up slowly with antihypertensive medications, can help prevent adverse reactions and improve treatment outcomes. This rationale emphasizes the importance of patient education and adherence to medication instructions in the context of pharmacological management across the lifespan.