Which of the following types of patients are more vulnerable to drug toxicity?
Immunocompromised patients
Immunocompetent patients
Infants and elderly patients
Patients who have allergic reactions
The Correct Answer is A
A. Immunocompromised patients:
Immunocompromised patients, whose immune systems are weakened or impaired, are indeed more vulnerable to drug toxicity. This vulnerability can be due to factors such as decreased ability to metabolize and eliminate drugs, increased susceptibility to infections and opportunistic pathogens, and impaired organ function, particularly in the liver and kidneys, which are involved in drug metabolism and excretion.
B. Immunocompetent patients:
Immunocompetent patients have normal immune function and are generally less vulnerable to drug toxicity compared to immunocompromised individuals. However, susceptibility to drug toxicity can still vary depending on factors such as age, underlying health conditions, renal and hepatic function, and concurrent use of other medications.
C. Infants and elderly patients:
Infants and elderly patients are more vulnerable to drug toxicity due to factors such as immature or declining organ function, altered drug metabolism and elimination, and differences in body composition. In infants, organ systems are still developing, while in elderly patients, age-related changes can affect drug pharmacokinetics and increase the risk of adverse reactions.
D. Patients who have allergic reactions:
Patients who have allergic reactions may experience adverse drug reactions if they are exposed to the offending medication again. However, this does not necessarily make them more vulnerable to drug toxicity in general. Allergic reactions are specific immune responses and differ from drug toxicity, which can occur due to various mechanisms unrelated to allergies.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Refers to an infection that is resistant to conventional antibiotics:
This statement is partially correct. Acquired resistance does indeed refer to bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics, but it is not specific to conventional antibiotics. Bacteria can develop resistance to various types of antibiotics, including conventional antibiotics and newer antimicrobial agents.
B. Superinfection that has significant antifungal resistance:
This statement is incorrect. Acquired resistance specifically pertains to bacteria and their ability to resist antibiotics. It does not involve antifungal resistance or superinfections.
C. Refers to a term used for antibiotic coverage:
This statement is incorrect. Acquired resistance is not a term used to describe antibiotic coverage. It describes the phenomenon of bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics.
D. There is no such phenomenon of acquired resistance:
This statement is incorrect. Acquired resistance is a well-documented phenomenon in microbiology and is a significant challenge in the treatment of bacterial infections. Ignoring or denying the existence of acquired resistance would overlook a critical aspect of antibiotic stewardship and management of bacterial infections.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Expect your urine to turn pink or red while taking this medication."
This statement is incorrect. Vancomycin does not typically cause urine discoloration. However, red man syndrome, characterized by flushing of the skin, particularly on the face and upper body, can occur with rapid infusion of vancomycin. This is not related to urine color change.
B. "Discontinue the medication once your symptoms subside."
This statement is incorrect. It's crucial for the client to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before completing the treatment course. Discontinuing the medication prematurely can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance and recurrence of the infection.
C. "Notify your provider if you experience any changes in your hearing."
This statement is correct. Vancomycin can potentially cause ototoxicity, which may manifest as changes in hearing, including ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or hearing loss. Clients should be instructed to report any such symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.
D. "Decrease your fluid intake to 1000ml per day."
This statement is incorrect. Adequate hydration is essential, especially when taking medications like vancomycin, to help prevent kidney damage and promote drug elimination. Restricting fluid intake is not advisable unless specifically instructed by the healthcare provider for a particular medical reason.
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