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. Keep the serum drug level within the therapeutic margin:
This is the correct goal of monitoring peak and trough levels during antibacterial therapy. The therapeutic margin refers to the range of drug concentrations in the bloodstream that achieves optimal therapeutic effects while avoiding toxicity. By monitoring peak and trough levels, healthcare providers can adjust the dosing regimen to maintain drug levels within this therapeutic margin.
B. Increase the therapeutic effect of the drug by gradually decreasing the drug dose:
This statement is incorrect. Monitoring peak and trough levels is not about increasing the therapeutic effect of the drug by gradually decreasing the drug dose. Instead, it's about ensuring that the drug levels are maintained within the appropriate therapeutic range to achieve optimal efficacy without causing adverse effects.
C. Provide maximum physical comfort to the patient:
Monitoring peak and trough levels is not primarily aimed at providing physical comfort to the patient. While optimizing drug therapy can contribute to improved clinical outcomes and patient well-being, the goal of monitoring these levels is specifically related to achieving therapeutic drug concentrations.
D. Treat the main disorder with no psychological distress to the patient:
This statement is unrelated to the goal of monitoring peak and trough levels during antibacterial therapy. While psychological distress may be a consideration in patient care, the primary goal of monitoring drug levels is to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. “I cannot smoke while taking this medication."
This statement is not directly related to the proper use of clarithromycin (Biaxin). While smoking cessation is generally encouraged for overall health, it is not specifically required while taking clarithromycin. However, smoking may affect the effectiveness of antibiotics in general due to its impact on the respiratory system and immune function.
B. “I can quit taking this medication when I feel better."
This statement is incorrect. It is important to emphasize to the client that they should complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by their healthcare provider, even if they start to feel better before finishing the medication. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete treatment and potentially contribute to antibiotic resistance.
C. “I cannot drive while taking this medication.”
This statement is not accurate. Clarithromycin (Biaxin) is not typically associated with sedation or impairment of driving ability. While some medications may cause drowsiness or other side effects that affect driving, this is not a common side effect of clarithromycin.
D. “I need to take this medication until it is gone."
This statement indicates an understanding of the importance of completing the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare provider. Taking the medication until it is finished helps ensure that all bacteria are effectively treated and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.
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