Which of the following contributes most to the debilitation of an individual during a course of chemotherapy?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Diarrhea is one of the most debilitating side effects of chemotherapy because it can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition. Persistent diarrhea can significantly impact the patient's quality of life, causing fatigue, weakness, and discomfort. While alopecia, constipation, and pain are also common side effects, diarrhea poses a greater immediate risk to the patient's physical health and ability to continue treatment. Managing diarrhea is therefore a priority in chemotherapy care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Tetracycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, requires specific administration instructions to ensure efficacy. It binds to divalent cations like calcium (in milk), magnesium (in antacids), and iron (in supplements), forming insoluble chelates that reduce absorption, rendering it ineffective. The instruction 'Do not take the medication with milk' is critical to avoid this interaction, ensuring therapeutic levels are achieved. Taking it with antacids or iron similarly impairs absorption, making these incorrect and potentially harmful suggestions. Decreasing vitamins is irrelevant, as vitamins don't typically interfere unless combined with minerals. This guidance aligns with tetracycline's pharmacokinetics, emphasizing timing away from meals or supplements containing these ions. Effective discharge teaching prevents treatment failure, especially for infections requiring consistent drug levels, making C the priority instruction for the client's understanding and adherence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Morphine depresses respiration, and 8 breaths per minute signals overdose, needing immediate action (e.g., naloxone) to reverse hypoventilation. BP of 120/80 and pulse of 90 are normal. Pain at 3/10 shows relief. Respiratory depression is morphine's gravest risk, critical in acute pain where safety trumps comfort, making A the finding requiring swift response.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Erythromycin is a suitable alternative for patients allergic to penicillin. Erythromycin belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics and is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections. It is generally well-tolerated and can be used as an alternative in cases of penicillin allergy.cephalosporins, tetracyclines, sulfonamides, and aminoglycosides like gentamicin should not be prescribed to a patient with a known penicillin allergy as they can potentially cross-react and cause allergic reactions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Night blindness is often caused by vitamin A deficiency. Foods rich in vitamin A, such as fortified milk and eggs, are recommended. Skim milk and peas (A), nuts and yeast (C), and enriched breads and cereals (D) are not significant sources of vitamin A.