The nurse is caring for a new client that got admitted to the unit for fevers.
The client takes propylthiouracil (PTU) at home.
The nurse understands that the client is taking propylthiouracil (PTU) to treat which of the following conditions?

Choice A rationale: Administering a small test dose is not typically required before giving an antibiotic unless there is a known history of severe allergies. It is more important to identify the causative organism to ensure the appropriate antibiotic is used.

Choice B rationale: Having epinephrine available is a safety measure for potential severe allergic reactions, but it is not the most immediate priority. Ensuring the antibiotic is appropriate for the infection is crucial.

Choice C rationale: Monitoring the client's temperature and blood pressure is important, but it is not the most immediate priority before administering the antibiotic. These parameters should be monitored throughout treatment.

Choice D rationale: Obtaining a urine specimen for culture and sensitivity is the most important action before administering the antibiotic. This ensures that the correct antibiotic is prescribed based on the specific bacteria causing the infection. It helps prevent the use of ineffective antibiotics and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Choice A rationale

Calcium channel blockers are used to treat hypertension and angina, not as cytotoxic chemotherapy agents.

Choice B rationale

Antimetabolites are a class of chemotherapy agents that interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis, making them cytotoxic and effective in treating cancer.

Choice C rationale

Diuretics are used to remove excess fluid from the body and are not cytotoxic chemotherapy agents.

Choice D rationale

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and are not classified as cytotoxic chemotherapy agents.