The nurse is instilling erythromycin ointment to the lower lid of the newborn’s eyes. Why is this medication being given to the newborn?
To provide moisture.
To prevent chemical conjunctivitis.
To prevent infection.
To treat infection.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Erythromycin ointment does not have moisturizing properties. Its primary purpose is to prevent bacterial infection, not to provide moisture to the eyes.
While some ointments may have a slight moisturizing effect, this is not the main reason for using erythromycin ointment in newborns.
If moisture is the primary concern, other products specifically designed to lubricate the eyes would be more appropriate.
Choice B rationale:
Chemical conjunctivitis is typically caused by exposure to irritants such as chlorine in swimming pools or strong chemicals. Erythromycin ointment is not effective in preventing chemical conjunctivitis.
In fact, it could potentially worsen the irritation if used in cases of chemical conjunctivitis.
If chemical conjunctivitis is suspected, flushing the eyes with water or saline solution and seeking medical attention would be the appropriate course of action.
Choice D rationale:
Erythromycin ointment is an antibiotic, but it is not typically used to treat active infections in newborns.
If a newborn has a suspected eye infection, a healthcare provider would likely prescribe a different antibiotic eye drop or ointment that is more effective in treating the specific infection.
However, erythromycin ointment can be used as a prophylactic measure to prevent eye infections, which is why it is commonly administered to newborns shortly after birth.
Choice C rationale:
Erythromycin ointment is primarily used to prevent eye infections in newborns.
It is effective against a variety of bacteria that can cause conjunctivitis, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae (the bacteria that causes gonorrhea) and Chlamydia trachomatis (the bacteria that causes chlamydia).
These bacteria can be passed from the mother to the baby during childbirth, and if left untreated, they can cause serious eye infections that can lead to vision loss.
By applying erythromycin ointment to the newborn's eyes shortly after birth, the risk of these infections can be significantly reduced.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus: Corticosteroids can have a hyperglycemic effect, meaning they can raise blood sugar levels. This makes them generally unsuitable for use in patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. In fact, corticosteroids might even worsen glycemic control in these patients. While corticosteroids might be used in some cases of diabetes mellitus, such as to treat diabetic retinopathy or nephropathy, they would be used cautiously and with close monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Choice B rationale:
A recent diagnosis of lung cancer: Corticosteroids are not a primary treatment for lung cancer. They might be used in some cases to help manage symptoms or side effects of other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. However, they would not typically be used as a first-line treatment for lung cancer itself.
Choice C rationale:
Acute exacerbation of COPD: Corticosteroids are a mainstay of treatment for acute exacerbations of COPD. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to improve airflow and relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Corticosteroids can be given orally, intravenously, or by inhalation. The dose and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of the exacerbation.
Choice D rationale:
Chronic asthma: Corticosteroids are often used as a long-term control medication for chronic asthma. However, they are typically used at lower doses than those used for acute exacerbations of COPD. Inhaled corticosteroids are the preferred form of treatment for chronic asthma, as they deliver the medication directly to the airways and have fewer systemic side effects.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A:
It is not recommended to always consume levothyroxine with food. In fact, food can interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine, leading to decreased efficacy of the medication.
Consuming levothyroxine with food can decrease its absorption by up to 30%, which can significantly impact its ability to manage hypothyroidism symptoms.
Certain foods, such as those high in fiber, calcium, or iron, can be particularly problematic, as they can bind to levothyroxine in the gut and further reduce its absorption.
While taking levothyroxine with a small amount of food may be necessary for some individuals who experience gastrointestinal side effects, it's generally recommended to take it on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
Rationale for Choice B:
Milk is not an ideal beverage to take with levothyroxine, as it can also interfere with absorption. Milk contains calcium, which can bind to levothyroxine and reduce its absorption.
It's best to avoid consuming milk or other calcium-rich beverages within a few hours of taking levothyroxine.
Rationale for Choice C:
Similar to milk, juice and crackers are not ideal choices to take with levothyroxine.
Juice, especially those high in acidity, can affect the absorption of levothyroxine in the gut.
Crackers, often made with refined grains, can be high in fiber, which can also interfere with absorption.
Rationale for Choice D:
Taking levothyroxine on an empty stomach, typically 30-60 minutes before breakfast, is generally recommended to ensure optimal absorption.
This allows the medication to be absorbed more efficiently in the small intestine without being affected by the presence of food.
By taking levothyroxine on an empty stomach, patients can maximize its effectiveness in treating hypothyroidism.
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