Third generation cephalosporins has the following characteristic EXCEPT:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer for this NCLEX question is option C: "All members can be used orally and parenterally." Third generation cephalosporins are a group of antibiotics known for their broad-spectrum activity against gram-negative bacteria and some gram-positive bacteria. However, not all members of this group can be administered both orally and parenterally. Some third generation cephalosporins are only available for parenteral administration, while others can be given orally as well. Option A, "Has an expanded gram-negative & anaerobic antimicrobial effect," is correct as third generation cephalosporins indeed have an extended spectrum of activity compared to earlier generations, covering more gram-negative bacteria and anaerobic organisms. Option B, "Effective against beta-lactamase producing organisms," is also correct. Third generation cephalosporins are designed to combat bacteria that produce beta-lactamase enzyme, which would otherwise render other antibiotics ineffective. Option D, "Used by injection for treatment of severe infections," is a common route of administration for third generation cephalosporins, especially in severe infections where intravenous administration ensures rapid and reliable delivery of the drug to the systemic circulation. In an educational context, understanding the characteristics of different generations of cephalosporins is crucial for nursing and medical students. It helps in selecting the appropriate antibiotic therapy based on the spectrum of activity, route of administration, and efficacy against specific pathogens. Familiarity with these drugs is essential for providing safe and effective patient care, especially in the management of infectious diseases.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of chemotherapy drugs, alkalinization of urine is indeed performed with sulphonamides to reduce crystalluria. This process helps to prevent the formation of crystals in the urine, which can lead to kidney damage and other complications. Sulphonamides work more effectively in an alkaline environment by increasing their solubility and reducing the risk of crystal formation. Option A is incorrect because alkalinization of urine is actually a well-established practice in the context of sulphonamides and chemotherapy drugs. It is a specific intervention used to enhance the effectiveness and safety of these medications. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind alkalinization of urine with sulphonamides is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals working with patients undergoing chemotherapy. It is essential for them to know how this process can impact the treatment outcomes and patient safety. Reinforcing this knowledge can help in preventing medication-related complications and ensuring optimal care for patients receiving chemotherapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Amphotericin B is an antifungal drug that works by binding to ergosterol molecules in the fungal cell membrane, disrupting its integrity and leading to cell death. Therefore, option B, "Bind to cholesterol molecules," is incorrect as it does not interact with cholesterol. Option A is correct as amphotericin B binds to ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. This binding is essential for its antifungal activity. Option C is correct because amphotericin B has a high selectivity for fungal cells due to their higher ergosterol content compared to human cells, reducing toxicity. Option D is also correct as amphotericin B can be used both systemically for severe systemic fungal infections and topically for localized fungal infections. Understanding the mechanisms of action and uses of antifungal drugs like amphotericin B is crucial for nursing practice, especially when caring for patients undergoing chemotherapy who may be at increased risk of fungal infections due to immunosuppression.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D) Safely prescribed during pregnancy & lactation and in neonates. Co-trimoxazole, a combination of sulphamethoxazole and trimethoprim, is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential harm it can cause to the developing fetus. It can also lead to adverse effects in neonates and should be avoided during lactation as it can pass into breast milk. Option A is incorrect because co-trimoxazole is indeed a combination of sulphamethoxazole and trimethoprim, commonly used as an antibiotic to treat various bacterial infections. Option B is inaccurate as co-trimoxazole is a bacteriostatic chemotherapeutic agent, meaning it inhibits bacterial growth rather than directly killing bacteria, thus making it bacteriostatic rather than bactericidal. Option C is also incorrect as co-trimoxazole works by inhibiting folic acid synthesis in bacteria, which is essential for DNA synthesis. By blocking this process, it interferes with bacterial growth and replication. This mechanism differs from a sequential block of DNA synthesis. In an educational context, understanding the properties and contraindications of chemotherapy drugs like co-trimoxazole is crucial for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX exam. This knowledge ensures safe and effective medication administration, as well as the ability to identify and prevent potential adverse effects in patients. It highlights the importance of evidence-based practice and critical thinking in clinical decision-making.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of NCLEX questions on chemotherapy drugs, understanding aminoglycoside antibiotics is crucial. The correct answer, option B - Azithromycin, is not an aminoglycoside antibiotic. Aminoglycosides are a specific class of antibiotics known for their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria. Gentamycin (option A), Kanamycin (option C), and Amikacin (option D) are all aminoglycoside antibiotics. Gentamycin is commonly used to treat various infections, including those caused by Gram-negative bacteria. Kanamycin is effective against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other bacterial infections. Amikacin is often used as a second-line treatment for infections resistant to other antibiotics. Azithromycin, on the other hand, belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class. It is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, skin infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. In an educational context, knowing the differences between classes of antibiotics is essential for safe and effective nursing practice. Understanding which drugs belong to specific classes helps nurses make informed decisions about treatment plans, dosages, and potential interactions. This knowledge is especially critical when caring for patients undergoing chemotherapy, where infections can have serious consequences.