A client receives a prescription for intravenous (IV) famotidine. Which finding indicates to the practical nurse (PN) the medication is effective?

Choice A reason: Stating that HIV is not cured by antiretrovirals is correct, as these drugs suppress viral replication but do not eradicate the virus. HIV integrates into host DNA, requiring lifelong therapy. This understanding is accurate, requiring no further review from the PN.

Choice B reason: Antiretrovirals reduce AIDS-related complications by suppressing viral load, preserving immune function, and preventing opportunistic infections. This statement is correct, reflecting the drugs’ role in maintaining CD4 counts and immune health, so no additional instruction is needed.

Choice C reason: Antiretrovirals can reduce viral load to undetectable levels, preventing disease progression and transmission risk. This is accurate, as effective therapy lowers plasma HIV RNA, aligning with treatment goals. The statement requires no further review, as it reflects correct understanding.

Choice D reason: Claiming antiretrovirals prevent transmission is inaccurate, as they reduce but do not eliminate transmission risk. Undetectable viral loads lower risk significantly, but transmission is still possible, especially with inconsistent adherence. This misstatement requires review to clarify transmission risks.

Choice A reason: The cost of medications, while a practical concern, does not indicate a need to assess the prescription’s safety or appropriateness. It reflects financial issues, not a clinical discrepancy. The PN should address cost concerns separately, but this does not warrant immediate prescription review.

Choice B reason: Frustration with daily pill-taking reflects emotional fatigue, not a clinical issue requiring prescription assessment. It may prompt adherence counseling, but it does not suggest errors in the prescription itself, such as incorrect medication or dosage, making this choice incorrect.

Choice C reason: Taking pills at 8:00 am at home versus 9:00 am in the hospital is a minor timing difference, not necessitating prescription review. Hospital schedules often differ, and this does not indicate a safety concern or error in the medication order.

Choice D reason: A new, unfamiliar pill raises concerns about potential prescription errors, allergies, or inappropriate medication. The PN must verify the prescription against the client’s history and medical record to ensure safety, as unfamiliarity may indicate a mistake or new therapy requiring confirmation.