The nurse is caring for a patient with ulcerative colitis who is ...

[vHAUNG6011]

The nurse is caring for a patient with ulcerative colitis who is being treated with azathioprine. Which laboratory test result should be monitored periodically?
 
  a. Microscopic urine examination
  b. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential
  c. Immunoglobulin survey
  d. Serum albumin

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a pharmacology refresher class to a group of medical-surgical nurses. The nurse asks Alosetron (Lotronex) is approved for which patient population?
 
  Which response by one of the nurses best indicates understanding of the use of this drug?
  a. It has been approved for use in women with diarrhea-predominant IBS.
  b. It can be given to men with diarrhea and crampy abdominal pain due to IBS.
  c. It would be indicated for pregnant women with iron-associated constipation.
  d. It is approved for use in children whose growth rate is reduced because of IBS.

[Dnite]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The nurse should monitor the CBC, because neutropenia is a major adverse effect of azathioprine. Another major adverse effect is pancreatitis.
Microscopic urinalysis is not indicated.
The immunoglobulin and serum albumin levels do not require monitoring.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Alosetron is approved for use in women only with diarrhea-predominant IBS; this statement indicates understanding.
Alosetron is not approved for symptoms of IBS in men, only women; further teaching is needed.
Alosetron is approved only for use in women with IBS associated with diarrhea. It therefore would be contraindicated in pregnant women with iron-associated constipation and children with IBS; further teaching is needed.

[vHAUNG6011]

Gracias!

[phuda]

TYSM