The nurse is preparing to transfuse a patient with a unit of packed red blood cells (PRBCs). Which patient would be best treated with this transfusion?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) are primarily used to treat patients with severe anemia, where the patient's red blood cell count is significantly low. Severe anemia can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. By transfusing PRBCs, the patient can receive a concentrated dose of red blood cells to help improve their oxygen levels and overall health.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dimercaprol is a chelating agent used to treat heavy metal toxicity, including gold salt toxicity. It binds to the gold ions, forming a complex that can be excreted from the body. Acetaminophen, calcium salts, and hydroxocobalamin are not used for this purpose. Prompt administration of dimercaprol is essential to prevent severe complications of gold salt toxicity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that requires careful monitoring. Obtaining a culture before administration ensures the infection is susceptible to ciprofloxacin. Tendon pain or rupture is a serious adverse effect of fluoroquinolones, particularly in older adults or those on corticosteroids. Dairy products can interfere with the absorption of ciprofloxacin, so patients should avoid them around the time of administration. Dizziness may indicate central nervous system effects, which should be reported promptly.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Hydrocortisone is the main glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoids are a class of corticosteroid hormones that are involved in regulating metabolism and immune responses. Hydrocortisone, also known as cortisol, plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress, inflammation, and maintaining blood pressure. It is essential for various physiological functions, including regulating blood sugar levels and suppressing the immune system's inflammatory responses. While other glucocorticoids like dexamethasone and prednisone are commonly used in clinical practice for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, hydrocortisone is the primary glucocorticoid naturally produced by the adrenal glands.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Acetaminophen overdose needs acetylcysteine , replenishing glutathione to detoxify NAPQI, preventing liver damage. Aspirin , bicarbonate , fomepizole , and penicillamine (E) don't apply. Early administration reverses her silent toxicity.