Author Question: A patient who will begin antiretroviral therapy reports having trouble sticking with drug regimens ... (Read 63 times)

Jramos095 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient who will begin antiretroviral therapy reports having trouble sticking with drug regimens in the past. Which action will the nurse take?

a. Ask the patient's family members to administer the medications.
b. Avoid discussing adverse effects to prevent focus on negative aspects of ART.
c. Give a detailed list of medications and stress the need to adhere to the schedule.
d. Offer written and verbal information about each drug's purpose.

Question 2

A patient who has recently begun antiretroviral therapy with a combination drug develops immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) with mild symptoms. What does the nurse expect that the provider will order?

a. Administration of a high dose of corticosteroids
b. Changing the regimen to a single antiretroviral drug
c. Temporarily discontinuing the antiretroviral therapy
d. Treating an underlying opportunistic infection

Melissahxx · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Patients often are more motivated to adhere to a drug regimen if they understand the purpose of the medications. Patients should be encouraged to take responsibility for their medications. Side effects need to be discussed so patients can plan ways to manage these before they occur.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
IRIS is related to specific opportunistic infections that must be treated. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as corticosteroids, may be used if indicated after the underlying infection is treated. Changing or discontinuing the antiretroviral therapy regimen is not indicated.