A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the instructions?
Infections become resistant to high doses of antibiotics.
Antibiotic dosages below the minimum concentration are prescribed.
Antibiotics are prescribed only when a viral infection is present.
Broad-spectrum antibiotics are used whenever possible.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Infections become resistant to high doses of antibiotics:
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a strain of Staphylococcus aureus that has become resistant to the antibiotic methicillin, as well as other beta-lactam antibiotics (such as penicillin and cephalosporins). Over time, bacteria can develop resistance mechanisms, often as a result of antibiotic misuse or overuse, such as not completing a full course of treatment or using antibiotics unnecessarily. MRSA, in particular, can grow resistant to higher and higher doses of standard antibiotics, making treatment more challenging.
B) Antibiotic dosages below the minimum concentration are prescribed:
Antibiotic dosages should always be prescribed at the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), which is the lowest concentration of the drug that can inhibit bacterial growth. Prescribing antibiotics below this concentration would not be effective in treating the infection and could contribute to antibiotic resistance.
C) Antibiotics are prescribed only when a viral infection is present:
Antibiotics, including those prescribed for MRSA, are only effective against bacterial infections, not viral infections. For viral infections (such as the flu or common cold), antibiotics should not be used, as they are ineffective. MRSA is a bacterial infection, and it requires appropriate antibiotic therapy specifically targeted to the bacteria, not a viral infection.
D) Broad-spectrum antibiotics are used whenever possible:
While broad-spectrum antibiotics are sometimes used in initial treatments when the specific bacterial pathogen is unknown, their overuse can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. In the case of MRSA, a more targeted approach with antibiotics specifically effective against resistant strains (like vancomycin or clindamycin) is preferred.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) High protein diet:
A high-protein diet is generally not a recommended nonpharmacological treatment for heart failure. While adequate protein intake is important for overall health, heart failure management typically focuses more on regulating sodium, fluid, and caloric intake. In some cases, a high-protein diet could place additional strain on the kidneys or exacerbate other conditions that may complicate heart failure.
B) Limit salt intake:
Limiting salt (sodium) intake is a crucial nonpharmacological strategy in managing heart failure. Excessive sodium can cause the body to retain water, leading to fluid overload, which can worsen heart failure symptoms such as edema, shortness of breath, and elevated blood pressure. Reducing sodium intake helps prevent these complications and aids in controlling symptoms.
C) 50 pound weight loss:
While weight loss may be beneficial for some individuals, especially those who are obese, a sudden or extreme weight loss of 50 pounds is not typically advised for someone with heart failure unless supervised by a healthcare provider. Rapid weight loss can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which may exacerbate heart failure symptoms.
D) Decrease Water intake:
While fluid restriction may be necessary for some individuals, especially those with severe fluid retention or in advanced stages of heart failure, it is not a blanket recommendation. The approach to fluid intake should be based on the individual’s condition, including factors such as kidney function and the presence of edema.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Cardizem:
Cardizem (diltiazem) is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium channel blockers work by inhibiting the entry of calcium into the smooth muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, which helps relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
B) Labetalol:
Labetalol is a beta blocker and an alpha-1 blocker. It works by blocking both beta-adrenergic receptors (which help decrease heart rate and blood pressure) and alpha-1 receptors (which cause vasodilation). This dual action makes labetalol effective in treating high blood pressure, especially in patients with conditions like hypertension and hypertensive emergencies. It reduces heart rate and helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow.
C) Losartan:
Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). ARBs work by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. By blocking this effect, losartan helps lower blood pressure and is used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure.
D) Simvastatin:
Simvastatin is a statin, which is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme involved in cholesterol production in the liver. They are used primarily to manage high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, but they do not have an effect on heart rate or blood pressure, unlike beta blockers.
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