The nurse admits a patient who was newly diagnosed with Kaposi's sarcoma to the unit. The physician has ordered an IV infusion of an interferon. What drug would be appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Interferon alfa 2b. Interferon alfa 2b is commonly used in the treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma. It has shown efficacy in inhibiting the growth of tumor cells and boosting the immune system. Interferon beta1a (A) is used for multiple sclerosis, not Kaposi's sarcoma. Interferon gamma 1b (B) is used for chronic granulomatous disease, not Kaposi's sarcoma. Peginterferon alfa 2b (D) is used for hepatitis C, not Kaposi's sarcoma. Hence, choice C is the most appropriate for this patient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Interleukins are signaling proteins that mediate communication between leukocytes to regulate immune responses. Choice C accurately describes interleukins' function in stimulating immunity through leukocyte interactions. Choice A is incorrect because interleukins are not produced in response to viral invasion specifically. Choice B is incorrect as interleukins generally regulate and amplify inflammatory responses instead of blocking them. Choice D is incorrect because while interleukins do bind to specific receptors, they are involved in a broader range of immune responses beyond very specific situations.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cyclosporine (Sandimmune) because it is the most commonly used immune suppressant for T- and B-cell suppression in various conditions like organ transplantation and autoimmune diseases. Cyclosporine works by inhibiting T-cell activation and cytokine production. Azathioprine (B) is primarily used for organ transplantation and autoimmune diseases but is not as commonly used as Cyclosporine. Pimecrolimus (C) is a topical immunosuppressant used for eczema treatment, not for systemic immune suppression like Cyclosporine. Glatiramer (D) is used for treating multiple sclerosis by modulating the immune response but is not the most commonly used immune suppressant overall.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct route for administering peginterferon alfa 2b (PEG-INTRON) is subcutaneously (SQ). This route ensures slow and sustained absorption, maintaining stable drug levels. Administering IM could lead to erratic absorption. Intralesional administration is localized and not suitable for systemic effects. Orally, the drug would be destroyed by the digestive system, rendering it ineffective. SQ is the most appropriate route for PEG-INTRON to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Calling the physician and questioning the order. This is the priority action because the patient has already failed alemtuzumab therapy after being treated with an alkylating agent, indicating a history of drug resistance or potential adverse reactions. It is crucial to confirm the appropriateness of the current treatment plan to ensure patient safety and prevent any possible harm. Choice B, washing hands, is important for infection control but is not the priority in this scenario. Choice C, beginning an intravenous infusion, should not be done without confirming the order first. Choice D, canceling the infusion, is not appropriate without consulting the physician first. Overall, prioritizing patient safety and effective communication with the healthcare team is key in this situation.