Author Question: A patient is being treated with interferon beta-1a (Avonex) for relapsing-remitting MS. The patient ... (Read 21 times)

yoroshambo · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient is being treated with interferon beta-1a (Avonex) for relapsing-remitting MS. The patient calls the clinic to report headache, fever, chills, and muscle aches after administering a dose. What will the nurse recommend?

a. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen
b. Asking the provider to order a complete blood count (CBC)
c. Coming to the clinic for evaluation for leukoencephalopathy
d. Discontinuing the drug immediately

Question 2

A patient has been diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis for 1 year and reports a recent brief period of being symptom free. The nurse will tell the patient that this indicates what?

a. Hope for long-term remission
b. Temporary improvement
c. Development of relapsing-remitting MS
d. Development of secondary progressive MS

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Patients treated with interferon beta can experience flulike reactions that diminish over time. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used to treat symptoms. A CBC is not indicated. Leukoencephalopathy is a side effect of natalizumab, not interferon beta. It is not necessary to discontinue the drug.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Patients with primary progressive MS have symptoms that grow progressively more intense over time; patients may experience occasional plateaus or temporary improvement, but they do not have clear remissions. This episode does not represent hope for long-term remission or the development of a different subtype of MS.