What does the term “antibiotics” mean:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Substances produced by some microorganisms and their synthetic analogues that selectively kill or inhibit the growth of other microorganisms. This definition accurately describes antibiotics, which are medications used to treat bacterial infections by either killing the bacteria or inhibiting their growth. Option A is incorrect because antibiotics are typically organic compounds produced by microorganisms like bacteria and fungi, or their synthetic derivatives, rather than non-organic or synthetic substances. Option C is incorrect because antibiotics target microorganisms like bacteria, not organism cells in general. Option D is incorrect because antibiotics specifically target bacteria, not protozoa or helminths, which are typically treated with different types of medications. Understanding the definition of antibiotics is crucial in pharmacology, especially in the context of treating bacterial infections effectively and avoiding the development of antibiotic resistance. Nurses need to have a solid grasp of pharmacology to administer medications safely and educate patients on their proper use.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of antimalarial drugs with gametocidal effects, the correct answer is B) Primaquine. Primaquine is known for its ability to target the sexual forms (gametocytes) of the malaria parasite, thus preventing their transmission to mosquitoes and subsequent spread to other individuals. This action is crucial in malaria control programs to interrupt the life cycle of the parasite. Option A) Mefloquine is not gametocidal but rather acts on the asexual erythrocytic forms of the parasite. It is used for treating and preventing malaria but does not specifically target the gametocytes. Option C) Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is primarily used for treating bacterial infections, including some forms of malaria, but it does not have gametocidal activity. Option D) Sulfonamides are not typically used as primary antimalarial agents. While they may have some activity against the malaria parasite, they are not specifically known for their gametocidal effects. Understanding the gametocidal properties of antimalarial drugs is essential for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, involved in the care and treatment of patients with malaria. By selecting the correct gametocidal drug, like primaquine, nurses can contribute significantly to the prevention of malaria transmission and the overall success of malaria control programs.

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.