A patient has been ordered azithromycin [Zithromax] and asks the nurse why the medication does not have to be taken as often as other antibiotics that have previously been ordered. What is the nurse's best response?
"This drug has a longer duration of action than some of the other antibiotics."
"This is a much more effective drug than what you received previously."
"I'll call the pharmacy and ask about the chemical makeup of the drug."
"You'll need to ask your healthcare provider questions like that."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "This drug has a longer duration of action than some of the other antibiotics."
Explanation: Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, has a longer half-life in the body compared to some other antibiotics. Half-life refers to the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. A longer half-life means the drug remains effective for a longer duration, allowing for less frequent dosing.
B. "This is a much more effective drug than what you received previously."
Explanation: While azithromycin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, it's not accurate to say it's universally more effective than other antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic depends on the specific type of infection and the susceptibility of the bacteria causing it. Effectiveness varies based on the context of use.
C. "I'll call the pharmacy and ask about the chemical makeup of the drug."
Explanation: While understanding the chemical makeup of drugs is important for healthcare professionals, it might not directly answer the patient's question about the dosing frequency. Explaining the drug's pharmacological properties, such as its duration of action, would provide a more relevant and understandable response to the patient's query.
D. "You'll need to ask your healthcare provider questions like that."
Explanation: This response does not provide the patient with the information they seek. Nurses are valuable resources for medication-related questions and should strive to provide accurate and understandable explanations to patients.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ceftaroline (Teflaro) is a fifth-generation cephalosporin antibiotic that is effective against MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus). It's the first cephalosporin in its class with this capability, making it a valuable choice in treating MRSA infections.
B. Cefepime (Maxipime) is a fourth-generation cephalosporin that does not have specific activity against MRSA.
C. Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) is a third-generation cephalosporin, effective against a wide range of bacteria, but not specifically targeted at MRSA.
D. Cephalexin (Keflex) is a first-generation cephalosporin, primarily effective against Gram-positive bacteria, but not effective against MRSA.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Aminoglycosides: Aminoglycosides are a different class of antibiotics. They do not have cross-sensitivity with penicillin. People who are allergic to penicillin can usually take aminoglycosides without a problem.
B. Erythromycins: Erythromycins are macrolide antibiotics. They are not related to penicillin structurally, so there is no cross-sensitivity between penicillin and erythromycins. People allergic to penicillin can generally take erythromycin without issues.
C. Quinolones: Quinolones, also known as fluoroquinolones, are a different class of antibiotics. They do not share a structural similarity with penicillin, so there is usually no cross-sensitivity between penicillin and quinolones. People allergic to penicillin can usually take quinolones without problems.
D. Cephalosporins: Cephalosporins are beta-lactam antibiotics, just like penicillins. They have a similar chemical structure to penicillins, which can lead to cross-sensitivity. Individuals who are allergic to penicillin might also have an allergic reaction to cephalosporins due to this structural resemblance. However, it's important to note that not all cephalosporins are the same, and the risk of cross-reactivity varies among different generations of cephalosporins. Healthcare providers need to assess the specific situation and choose an appropriate antibiotic if there is a known penicillin allergy.
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