A nurse is monitoring a patient with gout who is receiving allopurinol.
What is the primary purpose of allopurinol in the treatment of gout?
To relieve acute pain during gout attacks.
To reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints.
To lower uric acid levels in the body.
To improve joint mobility and range of motion.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
"To relieve acute pain during gout attacks" is not the primary purpose of allopurinol.
Allopurinol is used to lower uric acid levels over the long term and prevent future gout attacks, but it does not provide immediate pain relief during acute attacks.
Choice B rationale:
"To reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints" is not the primary purpose of allopurinol.
Allopurinol primarily works by inhibiting the production of uric acid, not by directly reducing inflammation.
Choice C rationale:
"To lower uric acid levels in the body" is the correct choice.
Allopurinol is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor that reduces the production of uric acid in the body, helping to maintain uric acid levels within a normal range and prevent gout attacks.
Choice D rationale:
"To improve joint mobility and range of motion" is not the primary purpose of allopurinol.
While effective management of gout can lead to improved joint function over time, allopurinol primarily addresses the underlying cause by lowering uric acid levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I will take the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as needed for pain" is a reasonable statement, as NSAIDs are often prescribed for pain relief during gout attacks.
However, it's important to note that NSAIDs should be taken as directed by the healthcare provider, and their use should be monitored due to potential side effects.
Choice B rationale:
"I'll make sure to use colchicine during acute attacks to reduce inflammation" is the correct choice.
Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory medication commonly used to treat gout during acute attacks.
Choice C rationale:
"I should avoid corticosteroids unless my doctor says they are necessary" is a reasonable statement.
Corticosteroids are typically reserved for cases of gout where other treatments are ineffective, and their use should be under medical supervision.
Choice D rationale:
"I will take allopurinol regularly to lower my uric acid levels" is a correct statement.
Allopurinol is a medication used to lower uric acid levels in individuals with gout, helping to prevent future attacks.
It is a part of long-term gout management.
Correct Answer is ["A","E"]
Explanation
Swelling and redness in the affected joint.
E. Increased urinary frequency and urgency.
Choice B rationale:
"Elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood." Elevated cholesterol levels are not indicative of gout.
Gout is primarily related to uric acid metabolism, and its clinical presentation includes joint symptoms like swelling and redness.
Choice C rationale:
"Severe abdominal pain and diarrhea." Severe abdominal pain and diarrhea are not typical signs of gout.
These symptoms are more suggestive of gastrointestinal issues rather than gout.
Choice D rationale:
"History of heart disease." While gout and heart disease can coexist, a history of heart disease is not a direct clinical finding indicative of gout.
Gout primarily affects the joints and is characterized by symptoms such as joint pain and swelling.
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