Tick the drug belonging to antibiotics having a polyene structure:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is A) Nystatin. Nystatin belongs to the class of antibiotics known as polyenes, characterized by their polyene structure. Polyene antibiotics like Nystatin work by binding to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, leading to cell membrane disruption and fungal cell death. Nystatin is primarily used topically to treat fungal infections like oral thrush and candidiasis. Option B) Ketoconazole is not a polyene antibiotic. It is an azole antifungal agent that works by inhibiting ergosterol synthesis in fungal cells. Option C) Griseofulvin is also not a polyene antibiotic. It is an antifungal medication that works by disrupting the formation of the fungal cell wall. Understanding the differences between these classes of drugs is crucial in pharmacology as it guides healthcare professionals in selecting the most appropriate treatment for specific infections. It is essential for nurses to have a strong foundation in pharmacology to ensure safe and effective medication administration and patient care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of cardiovascular drugs nursing pharmacology, the correct answer to the question "Tick the anticancer drug of plant origin" is option B) Vincristine. Vincristine is derived from the periwinkle plant, Catharanthus roseus, making it an anticancer drug of plant origin. This plant-based drug works by disrupting the formation of the mitotic spindle during cell division, leading to cell death in rapidly dividing cancer cells. Option A) Dactinomycin is an antibiotic derived from Streptomyces bacteria and is not of plant origin. It works by intercalating into DNA, disrupting DNA and RNA synthesis in cancer cells. Option C) Methotrexate is a synthetic drug that inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, an enzyme needed for DNA synthesis. It is not of plant origin. Option D) Procarbazine is a synthetic alkylating agent that interferes with DNA synthesis and is not derived from plants. Understanding the origins and mechanisms of action of different anticancer drugs is crucial in pharmacology education, as it helps nurses and healthcare professionals make informed decisions when administering these medications to patients. Knowing the source of a drug can also provide insights into its potential side effects and interactions. In this case, recognizing Vincristine as a plant-derived anticancer drug underscores the diversity of sources for pharmaceutical agents and highlights the importance of botanical compounds in modern medicine.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. ACE inhibitors are absolutely contraindicated in this woman due to her history of gouty arthritis, as these drugs can worsen the condition. ACE inhibitors can increase levels of uric acid in the blood, leading to gout attacks. Therefore, it is important to avoid ACE inhibitors in patients with a history of gout.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Captopril is an ACE inhibitor that works by reducing preload and afterload on the heart, which helps improve symptoms of heart failure. By reducing preload, it decreases the amount of blood returning to the heart, and by reducing afterload, it decreases the resistance the heart has to pump against. This ultimately leads to improved cardiac function and symptom relief in patients with heart failure.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of managing angina pectoris, maximal medical therapy aims to address the underlying mechanisms contributing to myocardial ischemia. The correct answer, option D (Isosorbide, atenolol, diltiazem), represents a comprehensive approach targeting different aspects of angina treatment. Isosorbide is a nitrate that dilates coronary arteries, reducing myocardial oxygen demand. Atenolol, a beta-blocker, decreases heart rate and contractility, reducing myocardial workload. Diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, dilates coronary arteries and reduces myocardial oxygen demand by decreasing contractility and heart rate. Option A (Diltiazem, verapamil, nitroglycerin) includes two calcium channel blockers which, when combined, can lead to excessive vasodilation and negative inotropic effects. Nitroglycerin provides acute relief but is not part of maximal long-term therapy. Option B (Atenolol, isoproterenol, diltiazem) includes an inappropriate use of isoproterenol, a non-selective beta-agonist, which can worsen angina due to increased myocardial oxygen demand. Option C (Verapamil, nifedipine, propranolol) combines two calcium channel blockers with a beta-blocker, which can lead to excessive negative inotropic effects and bradycardia, potentially worsening angina symptoms. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind maximal medical therapy for angina helps students appreciate the multifactorial approach needed to effectively manage this condition. It underscores the importance of balancing oxygen supply and demand in the ischemic heart to alleviate symptoms and improve patient outcomes.