A patient receives a drug that has a narrow therapeutic range. The nurse administering this medication will expect to do what?

Choice A Reason:

Psychosocial factors, such as stress, beliefs, and expectations, can influence drug response to some extent. However, they are not the primary reason for the most common variations in drug response. These factors might affect how a patient perceives the effectiveness of a drug, but they do not significantly alter the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of the drug itself.

Choice B Reason:

Drug receptor sites can vary between individuals, affecting how well a drug binds and exerts its effect. While this can contribute to differences in drug response, it is not the most common cause. Variations in receptor sites are often due to genetic differences, which can influence the efficacy and potency of a drug.

Choice C Reason:

This is the correct answer. The metabolism of drugs is the most common cause of variation in drug response among individuals. Differences in metabolic rates can be attributed to genetic factors, age, liver function, and the presence of other medications. These factors affect how quickly a drug is broken down and eliminated from the body, leading to variations in drug levels and responses.

Choice D Reason:

Hypersensitivity potential refers to the likelihood of an individual having an allergic reaction to a drug. While this can cause significant differences in drug response, it is not the most common reason for variations. Hypersensitivity reactions are relatively rare compared to metabolic differences.

Choice A Reason:

Beta2 agonists, such as terbutaline, are commonly used to manage premature labor. These drugs work by stimulating beta2 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscles of the uterus, leading to relaxation and suppression of contractions. Therefore, questioning the use of a beta2 agonist in this scenario would not be appropriate.

Choice B Reason:

Anticholinergic drugs are not typically used to manage premature labor. They work by blocking the action of acetylcholine in the nervous system, which can lead to various effects such as reduced secretions and relaxation of smooth muscles. However, they are not specifically indicated for stopping uterine contractions, so questioning their use in this context is less relevant.

Choice C Reason:

This is the correct answer. Beta2 antagonists, also known as beta-blockers, work by blocking beta2 adrenergic receptors, which can lead to increased uterine contractions. Using a beta2 antagonist in a patient experiencing premature labor would be counterproductive and could exacerbate the condition. Therefore, it is appropriate to question the use of beta2 antagonists in this scenario.

Choice D Reason:

Alpha1 agonists are not typically used in the management of premature labor. These drugs stimulate alpha1 adrenergic receptors, leading to vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure. They do not have a direct effect on uterine contractions, so questioning their use in this context is less relevant.