Author Question: A patient with Crohn's disease will begin receiving an initial infusion of infliximab (Remicade). ... (Read 59 times)

ahriuashd · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient with Crohn's disease will begin receiving an initial infusion of infliximab (Remicade). The nurse explains how this drug works to treat this disease. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

a. I may have an increased risk of infections, such as tuberculosis, when taking infliximab.
b. I should report chills, fever, itching, and shortness of breath while receiving the infusion.
c. This drug sometimes provides a complete cure of inflammatory bowel disease.
d. I will take the second dose in 2 weeks, the third dose in 6 weeks, and then a dose every 8 weeks thereafter.

Question 2

A nurse is discussing the use of immunosuppressants for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with a group of nursing students. Which statement by a student indicates understanding of the teaching?

a. Azathioprine (Imuran) helps induce rapid remission of IBD.
b. Cyclosporine (Sandimmune) can be used to induce remission of IBD.
c. Cyclosporine (Sandimmune) does not have serious adverse effects.
d. Methotrexate is used long term to maintain remission of IBD.

kjo;oj · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
None of the drugs used to treat obstructive bowel disease (OBD) are curative. Patients taking immunomodulators, such as infliximab, have an increased risk of infection, especially opportunistic infections such as TB. Infusion reactions may occur and include chills, fever, itching, and shortness of breath. The induction regimen is 5 mg/kg infused at 0, 2, and 6 weeks, followed by a maintenance regimen every 8 weeks.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Cyclosporine can be given intravenously to induce rapid remission of IBD. Azathioprine has delayed onset of effects up to 6 months and is not used to induce rapid remission. Cyclosporine is a toxic compound that can cause renal impairment, neurotoxicity, and immune suppression. Methotrexate is used to promote short-term remission.