Author Question: A patient is prescribed intravenous (IV) acyclovir (Zovirax). Which question is most important for ... (Read 23 times)

BrownTown3 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient is prescribed intravenous (IV) acyclovir (Zovirax). Which question is most important for the nurse to ask before giving the first dose of this drug?

a. Do you have a hearing problem or any trouble with your ears?
b. Do you take medications for seizures?
c. Are you allergic to sulfa drugs?
d. Have you ever had asthma?

Question 2

A patient who is prescribed prochlorperazine (Compazine) for postoperative nausea and vomiting has all of the following changes. For which change does the nurse immediately contact the prescriber?

a. Systolic blood pressure decrease of 12 mm Hg
b. Increased sleepiness but arouses with light shaking
c. Oral temperature increase of 2 F
d. Urine color change from yellow to reddish-brown

frogdreck123456 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Acyclovir reduces the effectiveness of phenytoin, a drug that is used to prevent seizures. The prescriber may need to adjust the phenytoin dosage while the patient is on antiviral therapy.

Answer to Question 2

C
Prochlorperazine can trigger neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a rare and life-threatening side effect in which dangerously high body temperatures can occur. Without prompt and expert treatment, this condition can be fatal in as many as 20 of those who develop it. One of the first warning signs is increasing body temperature. At this point, steps must be taken quickly to pre-vent this adverse reaction from becoming worse.