Answer to Question 1
ANS: A
The principal concerns with ribavirin are hemolytic anemia and birth defects. The nurse should instruct the patient to come in for a CBC, because the signs and symptoms are consistent with hemolytic anemia.
The patient's symptoms are not a normal response to the medication.
Fatigue and shortness of breath will not be fixed by administration of an antihistamine.
The medication dosage may be reduced, but the priority is to have the patient come in immediately for a blood test.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: A
The tablets should be ingested intact, without crushing or chewing, because they have the potential for mutagenesis and carcinogenesis and should be handled carefully.
The pills effectiveness would not be lost by this action.
A bolus would not be delivered, and the first-pass effect would not be affected by this action.