Question

The nurse is admitting a client with advanced prostate cancer and a history of myocardial infarction and pulmonary emboli. Which would the nurse expect to be prescribed for this client? A. Leuprolide acetate (Lupron) B. Flutamide (Euflex) C. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) D. Goserelin acetate (Zoladex)

Short answer

Answer: B. Flutamide (Euflex)

Step-by-step solution

Understand the medications

First, let's take a closer look at each medication to get an idea of their purpose and potential benefits or drawbacks for this particular client. A. Leuprolide acetate (Lupron) - A synthetic hormone that reduces the production of testosterone, thereby reducing the growth of prostate cancer. B. Flutamide (Euflex) - A nonsteroidal antiandrogen drug used alongside other treatments to manage prostate cancer. C. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) - A synthetic estrogen medication once used to treat prostate cancer, but now associated with serious health risks, including an increased risk of cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and pulmonary emboli. D. Goserelin acetate (Zoladex) - A synthetic hormone that reduces the amount of testosterone and estrogen in the body, which can help slow the growth of certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer.

Eliminate inappropriate options

Given the client's history of myocardial infarction and pulmonary emboli, it is important to avoid medications that may exacerbate these conditions. Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and is therefore not a suitable choice for this client (Option C).

Consider the remaining options

With DES eliminated as a potential option, we are left with three possible medications to consider for this client: Lupron, Euflex, and Zoladex. All three of these medications have been used to treat prostate cancer, so let's consider their effectiveness for this particular client. Leuprolide acetate (Lupron) and Goserelin acetate (Zoladex) are both synthetic hormones that work by reducing testosterone production. While both can be effective in reducing the growth of prostate cancer, they may also have side effects that could be concerning for the client, such as increased blood pressure or potential for blood clot formation. Flutamide (Euflex), on the other hand, is a nonsteroidal antiandrogen drug that can be used in combination with other treatments to effectively manage this client's advanced prostate cancer. It does not carry the same cardiovascular risks as DES and may be a more appropriate choice.

Determine the best option

Based on the client's medical history and the known risks and benefits of the medications, Flutamide (Euflex) appears to be the most appropriate choice for treating their advanced prostate cancer. The correct answer is B. Flutamide (Euflex).