Question

The physician has prescribed tazaretene (Tazorac) topical cream for a female client with psoriasis vulgaris. Prior to beginning the medication, the client should have a: A. \(\mathrm{CBC}\) B. Renal profile C. Chest \(x\)-ray D. Pregnancy test

Short answer

Answer: The female client should have a pregnancy test before beginning tazaretene topical cream for psoriasis vulgaris.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze Option A

Option A suggests that the client should have a CBC (Complete Blood Count) before starting the medication. A CBC measures the levels of various blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This test is useful for diagnosing conditions such as anemia and infections. However, there isn't a direct link between the use of tazaretene and a need for CBC, so we need to consider other options.

Analyze Option B

Option B suggests a renal profile before taking the tazaretene topical cream. Renal profiles are tests that help evaluate kidney function. This may include tests like blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Although important for general health, renal profiles are not directly related to the application of tazaretene topical cream.

Analyze Option C

Option C suggests a chest x-ray before beginning the medication. Chest x-rays provide images of the chest, including the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. They can be useful for diagnosing conditions such as pneumonia, lung cancer, and heart failure. However, they are not directly linked to the use of tazaretene topical cream and may not be necessary in this case.

Analyze Option D

Option D suggests a pregnancy test before starting the tazaretene topical cream treatment. Tazaretene is a retinoid, which are known to cause birth defects in developing fetuses. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that the female client is not pregnant before beginning the medication to prevent any potential harm to the fetus.

Determine the correct answer

Based on the analysis of each option, the most appropriate test for the client to have before beginning tazaretene topical cream is a pregnancy test (Option D). This is because tazaretene is a retinoid, which poses risks to unborn babies, making it crucial to confirm that the female client is not pregnant.