Several clients are receiving the antiviral medication acyclovir. ...

[kodithompson]

Several clients are receiving the antiviral medication acyclovir. Which orders from the health care provider would the nurse question?
 
  Standard Text: Select all that apply.
  1. Acyclovir IM
  2. Acyclovir IV
  3. Acyclovir cream
  4. Acyclovir by mouth
  5. Acyclovir by SQ

Question 2

The health care provider orders amantadine (Symmetrel) for a client with influenza. Which part of the client's health history would the nurse report to the health care provider prior to administering amantadine (Symmetrel)?
 
  1. Epilepsy
  2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  3. Diabetes mellitus
  4. Allergy to shellfish

[dominiqueenicolee]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1,5
Rationale 1: Acyclovir cannot be administered by intramuscular injection. The nurse would question this order.
Rationale 2: Acyclovir can be administered intravenously. The nurse does not need to question this order.
Rationale 3: Acyclovir can be administered topically in a cream. The nurse does not need to question this order.
Rationale 4: Acyclovir can be administered orally. The nurse does not need to question this order.
Rationale 5: Acyclovir cannot be administered by subcutaneous injection. The nurse would question this order.
Global Rationale: Acyclovir routes of administration are oral, intravenous, and topical. It is not given by other routes.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Amantadine (Symmetrel) is associated with seizures, and should not be administered to a client with epilepsy.
Rationale 2: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an indication for amantadine because influenza could be fatal in this client.
Rationale 3: Diabetes is not a contraindication to the use of amantadine.
Rationale 4: An allergy to shellfish is not a contraindication to the use of amantadine.
Global Rationale: Amantadine should be used cautiously in patients with CNS disease, suicidal ideation, or psychiatric disorders, including seizures or psychoses, because the antiviral may worsen these conditions. COPD, diabetes, and shellfish allergy is not a contraindication to use of amantadine.