Which of the following findings would suggest that myelosuppression is occurring in a client who is taking zidovudine? (Retrovir)

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of safety pharmacology, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications is crucial for healthcare professionals. Zidovudine (Retrovir) is an antiretroviral medication commonly used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Myelosuppression is a known side effect of zidovudine, which refers to a decrease in the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. The correct answer is C) decrease in platelet count. Platelets are a type of blood cell that is essential for blood clotting. A decrease in platelet count indicates myelosuppression, as zidovudine can inhibit the production of platelets in the bone marrow, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising. Option A) increase in BUN levels is incorrect because it is a measure of kidney function, not directly related to myelosuppression caused by zidovudine. Option B) increase in WBC count is incorrect because zidovudine typically causes bone marrow suppression, leading to a decrease rather than an increase in white blood cell count. Option D) decrease in BP is unrelated to myelosuppression and is not a typical side effect of zidovudine. Educationally, understanding the specific laboratory findings associated with myelosuppression caused by zidovudine is essential for healthcare providers to monitor and manage potential adverse effects in patients. Recognizing the significance of a decrease in platelet count can prompt timely intervention to prevent complications such as bleeding disorders in individuals taking zidovudine.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of Safety Pharmacology Across the Lifespan, understanding social determinants of health is crucial as it impacts medication access and adherence. The correct answer is C) a patient assistance program. This option is the most appropriate because patient assistance programs are specifically designed to help individuals with limited financial resources access expensive medications like Victoza. Option A) a prescription payment plan, may not be feasible for a patient with very limited financial resources as it still requires payment. Option B) the $4 list at Walmart and option D) the $10 list at Walmart may offer discounted prices for some medications, but Victoza is likely not included on these lists due to its cost. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of considering social determinants of health in clinical practice. It emphasizes the role of healthcare providers in advocating for patients with limited resources by exploring all available options to ensure they can access necessary medications for their health and well-being. Understanding resources like patient assistance programs equips healthcare providers to provide holistic care that addresses not just medical needs but also social and economic factors impacting health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Levalbuterol is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that acts on bronchial smooth muscle to cause bronchodilation. It is inhaled and short-acting, commonly used to prevent or treat bronchospasm, including exercise-induced asthma episodes. The other options misclassify the drug or its administration route and therapeutic use.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Blocking muscarinic receptors of the bronchi, resulting in bronchodilation. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic medication that works by blocking muscarinic receptors in the bronchi, leading to bronchodilation. This mechanism of action helps to relieve bronchospasm by inhibiting the effects of acetylcholine on these receptors, thereby promoting smooth muscle relaxation and improving airflow in the lungs. Option A is incorrect because antagonizing b2 adrenergic receptors would actually lead to bronchoconstriction, which is the opposite effect of what is desired in treating bronchospasm. Option C is incorrect as agonizing muscarinic receptors would also not lead to bronchodilation but rather bronchoconstriction. Option D is unrelated to the mechanism of action of Ipratropium as it mentions antagonizing a1 adrenergic receptors of the myocardium, which does not relate to bronchodilation. In an educational context, understanding the mechanism of action of medications used in the management of respiratory conditions is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Knowing how Ipratropium works allows nurses to anticipate its effects, monitor for therapeutic outcomes, and recognize and manage any potential adverse reactions. This knowledge enhances nursing practice and contributes to positive patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) Phenylephrine agonizes alpha1-adrenergic receptors, causing a reduction in the inflammation of the nasal membranes. Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic drug that acts primarily as a selective alpha1-adrenergic receptor agonist. When it binds to these receptors in the nasal mucosa, it causes vasoconstriction, leading to a decrease in nasal congestion by reducing blood flow and swelling in the nasal passages. Option B) Phenylephrine does not antagonize beta2 adrenergic receptors; it actually agonizes alpha1-adrenergic receptors. Option C) Phenylephrine does not agonize gamma2-cholinergic receptors; it primarily targets alpha1-adrenergic receptors. Option D) Phenylephrine does not antagonize muscarinic receptors; its main action is through alpha1-adrenergic receptors. Understanding the mechanism of action of medications is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective patient care. In this case, knowing that Phenylephrine acts on alpha1-adrenergic receptors helps nurses understand how the medication works to relieve nasal congestion in patients with nonallergic rhinitis. This knowledge also enables them to monitor for potential side effects and interactions associated with this type of medication.