The principal active alkaloid of ipecac is

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) Emetine. Emetine is the principal active alkaloid of ipecac. Ipecac is a plant-derived substance used to induce vomiting in cases of poisoning. Emetine is the component responsible for the emetic (vomiting) effect of ipecac. Option A) Yohimbine is a different alkaloid found in the yohimbe tree bark, commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction. Option B) Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, tea, and certain medications, but it is not the active alkaloid in ipecac. Option C) Apomorphine is a non-selective dopamine agonist used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and for acute management of emesis. Understanding the principal active alkaloid of ipecac is important for healthcare professionals, especially those working in emergency care settings where ipecac might be administered. Knowing the correct alkaloid can help in understanding its mechanism of action and potential side effects. This knowledge is also crucial for nurses and pharmacists who may be involved in administering or dispensing medications containing ipecac.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this NCLEX question on chemotherapy drugs, the correct answer is A) Hydrocortisone, which is contraindicated in the presence of active tuberculosis. Hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, can suppress the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections like tuberculosis. Using hydrocortisone in someone with active tuberculosis can worsen the infection and lead to serious complications. Streptomycin (B), INH (C), and PAS (D) are all commonly used in the treatment of tuberculosis. Streptomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic effective against TB; INH is a first-line anti-TB medication; PAS is a second-line drug used for TB treatment. None of these medications are contraindicated in the presence of active tuberculosis. Educationally, understanding contraindications of medications in specific conditions like tuberculosis is crucial for safe and effective nursing practice. Nurses must be able to identify when certain medications should not be used to prevent harm to the patient and optimize treatment outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this NCLEX question, yellow pigmentation of the skin is most commonly associated with Quinacrine (Option C). Quinacrine is a medication used for various conditions, including malaria and certain autoimmune diseases. The yellow discoloration of the skin, known as jaundice, is a common side effect of quinacrine due to its impact on liver function. Option A, Chloroquine, is also used to treat malaria, but it is not typically associated with significant skin discoloration. Option B, Pamaquin, is a medication used for malaria prevention but is not known to cause yellow pigmentation of the skin. Option D, Quinine, is another antimalarial drug that does not commonly lead to skin yellowing. In an educational context, understanding the side effects of chemotherapy drugs is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals caring for patients undergoing such treatments. Recognizing the manifestations of drug side effects, like jaundice in this case, is essential for early identification and appropriate management to ensure patient safety and well-being. This question reinforces the importance of medication knowledge, side effect recognition, and critical thinking skills in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of NCLEX questions on chemotherapy drugs, understanding the effects of antimicrobial treatment on different types of diarrhoeas is crucial for safe and effective nursing practice. The correct answer, B) Campylobacter diarrhoea, is not altered by antimicrobial treatment because antibiotics do not significantly impact the course of Campylobacter infections. A) Mild enterotoxigenic E.coli diarrhoea can be treated with antimicrobials to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. C) Coeliac disease diarrhoea is not typically treated with antimicrobials but rather through dietary modifications. D) Food poisoning diarrhoea may be caused by various pathogens that could respond to antimicrobial treatment, depending on the specific causative agent. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents in treating diarrhoeal conditions caused by different pathogens. It underlines the need for nurses to have a sound knowledge of microbiology and pharmacology to provide safe and effective care to patients undergoing chemotherapy who may be at increased risk of infections.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The preferred drug for controlling an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis is Prednisolone (Option A). Prednisolone is a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation in the colon, which is crucial in managing the symptoms of ulcerative colitis during an exacerbation. Sulfasalazine (Option B) is also used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, but it is more commonly used for maintenance therapy rather than for controlling acute exacerbations. Mesalazine (Option C) is another aminosalicylate drug used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, particularly for mild to moderate cases and for maintenance therapy, but it is not the preferred choice for controlling acute exacerbations. Vancomycin (Option D) is an antibiotic that is not typically used to treat ulcerative colitis. Antibiotics may be used in cases of infection-related exacerbations but are not the primary treatment for managing ulcerative colitis symptoms. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate use of medications in the treatment of ulcerative colitis is crucial for nursing practice, especially for nurses caring for patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Knowing the specific indications for each drug and their roles in managing acute exacerbations versus maintenance therapy is essential for providing effective and safe care to patients with ulcerative colitis.