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 ["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.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Reduce your intake of red meat and seafood" is a correct recommendation.
These foods are high in purines, which can contribute to elevated uric acid levels and increase the risk of gout attacks.
Choice B rationale:
"Increase your consumption of alcohol to stay hydrated" is an incorrect recommendation.
Alcohol can contribute to dehydration and may exacerbate gout symptoms.
It is generally advisable for individuals with gout to limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
Choice C rationale:
"Maintain a high-protein diet to support muscle health" is an incorrect recommendation.
While protein is important for muscle health, high-protein diets, especially those rich in red meat, can be associated with increased purine intake, which may worsen gout symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
"Consider losing weight if you are overweight" is a correct recommendation.
Weight loss can help reduce the risk of gout and improve gout management, as obesity is a risk factor for gout.
Choice E rationale:
"Avoid fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants" is an incorrect recommendation.
Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants are generally considered healthy and can be part of a balanced diet.
They are not associated with gout risk and can even have protective effects.
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