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.

Key concepts

Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the study of drugs and their effects on the body. Understanding pharmacology is crucial for healthcare professionals so they can safely and effectively prescribe medications.

With tazaretene (Tazorac), a topical retinoid prescribed for psoriasis vulgaris, it is important to understand the chemical properties and how they interact with human tissue. Retinoids are a class of compounds related to vitamin A and are commonly used in dermatological treatments.

The mechanism of action for retinoids like tazaretene involves normalizing the shedding of skin cells, which is particularly beneficial for patients with psoriasis. Pharmacology also considers the drug's potential side effects and contraindications. For tazaretene, the most notable risk is teratogenicity, a property that can cause birth defects if used during pregnancy.

Patient Safety

Ensuring patient safety is a fundamental aspect of healthcare that involves minimizing the risk of harm while treating patients. When prescribing medications like tazaretene, healthcare providers need to consider all safety precautions.

For any new treatment, evaluating the risk-to-benefit ratio is necessary. In the case of retinoids, the benefits in treating dermatological conditions must be weighed against potential adverse effects. To ensure safety, it may involve performing pre-treatment evaluations, considering contraindications, and ongoing patient monitoring.

Educating patients about how to correctly use the medication, recognizing signs of adverse effects, and preventing its use by pregnant individuals are integral to maintaining safety.

Dermatological Treatments

Dermatological treatments focus on improving skin health and managing conditions like psoriasis vulgaris. Understanding the specific needs and responses of the skin is vital to effective dermatological care.

Tazaretene, a topical treatment, is applied directly to the skin, offering targeted therapy. For psoriasis, the goal is to reduce plaques and inflammation associated with the condition. Dermatological treatments often involve using a combination of therapies for the best outcomes.

Regular follow-ups are essential to ensure that the treatment is effective and any side effects are managed appropriately. Personalizing treatment plans based on the patient's response can be crucial for successful dermatological results.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is the health support provided to a woman during her pregnancy. It is crucial for monitoring and promoting the health and well-being of both the mother and fetus.

Before prescribing drugs like tazaretene to women of childbearing age, a pregnancy test is necessary. This ensures the safety of the potential fetus, as some drugs, due to their pharmacological properties, can cause developmental issues.

Prenatal care involves regular check-ups, counseling on healthy lifestyle practices, and necessary diagnostic tests. Early intervention can prevent complications for mother and baby, thus underscoring the need for thorough medical histories and precautionary measures before starting medications during the reproductive years.