A client who is HIV positive is receiving zidovudine during labor. Which information should the nurse provide to the client?
The drug treats fungal infections associated with HIV.
The medication is given for treatment of chorioamnionitis.
This treatment helps prevent transmission of the virus to the fetus.
This intervention helps to prevent HIV complications in the mother.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Zidovudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI). It works by inhibiting the enzyme reverse transcriptase, which is crucial for the replication of retroviruses like HIV. It does not possess any antifungal properties. Fungal infections, such as candidiasis, are often treated with antifungal agents like fluconazole, not antiretroviral drugs.
Choice B rationale
Chorioamnionitis is an intrauterine infection of the chorion and amnion, typically caused by ascending bacteria. It is treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics to address the bacterial etiology. Zidovudine is an antiviral medication specifically targeting the replication of HIV and is ineffective against bacterial infections.
Choice C rationale
Zidovudine works by inhibiting reverse transcriptase, thereby preventing the viral RNA of HIV from being converted into DNA. This mechanism significantly reduces the viral load in the mother and the risk of transplacental transmission to the fetus. This strategy is a cornerstone of preventing perinatal HIV transmission.
Choice D rationale
While zidovudine is a component of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for managing HIV infection in adults, its primary purpose in the context of labor and delivery is to prevent vertical transmission to the newborn. The treatment regimen for the mother's own HIV complications is a separate, long-term protocol.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Morphine is an opioid analgesic, not a primary antihypertensive, although it can have a vasodilatory effect. Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant and vasodilator used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia, but it is the second substance listed and the question asks for the order.
Choice B rationale
Magnesium sulfate is the second substance listed, and the question asks for the substance to decrease blood pressure first. While magnesium sulfate is a vasodilator, its primary use in this context is seizure prophylaxis. Hydralazine is an antihypertensive, but it is listed as the second substance for seizure prevention.
Choice C rationale
Hydralazine is an antihypertensive and would decrease blood pressure, but lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used to treat active seizures, not prevent them. Magnesium sulfate is the agent of choice for seizure prophylaxis in preeclampsia.
Choice D rationale
Hydralazine is a direct-acting vasodilator that primarily relaxes arterial smooth muscle, leading to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance and, consequently, a reduction in blood pressure. Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant that decreases neuromuscular excitability, thereby preventing seizures in conditions like preeclampsia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While grandparent support is valuable, it doesn't directly address the siblings' need to understand their brother's specific illness and hospitalization. The siblings require accurate, age-appropriate information about their brother's condition to reduce fear and anxiety, which external family visits do not provide. The focus should be on direct communication about the changes their brother is experiencing.
Choice B rationale
Making gifts can be a positive coping mechanism, but it does not address the underlying need for factual information. Without understanding what is happening to their brother, the siblings may still experience anxiety, confusion, or fear. The primary need is for clear, honest communication to help them process the situation effectively.
Choice C rationale
Using a scrapbook can be a helpful tool for reminiscence, but it might not adequately prepare children for the immediate and potentially frightening changes they will observe during a hospital visit. The primary goal is to manage expectations and provide accurate information about the brother's current state to prevent distress.
Choice D rationale
Preparing siblings for changes in their brother, such as different appearances or equipment, reduces fear and anxiety by providing a cognitive framework for what they will see. This anticipatory guidance allows them to mentally process the situation, normalizing the hospital environment and their brother's condition. This promotes emotional resilience and reduces potential trauma.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
