Question

The physician has ordered Myambutol (ethambutol) as part of a four-drug regimen for treating a client with tuberculosis. Which side effect is associated with the use of ethambutol? A. Red discoloration of the urine B. Deficiency of pyridoxine (B6) C. Changes in color perception D. Swollen, painful joints

Short answer

Answer: C. Changes in color perception

Step-by-step solution

Identify the side effect of Myambutol (ethambutol)

In order to find the correct answer, we need to know the side effect associated with the use of Myambutol (ethambutol) in treating tuberculosis. Reviewing its side effects, we find that: - A. Red discoloration of the urine is not commonly associated with ethambutol. - B. Deficiency of pyridoxine (B6) is not typically associated with ethambutol use. - C. Changes in color perception is a known side effect of ethambutol use. - D. Swollen, painful joints are not commonly associated with ethambutol.

Select the correct answer

Based on the information we have reviewed, the side effect associated with the use of ethambutol is changes in color perception. Therefore, the correct answer is: C. Changes in color perception

Key concepts

Tuberculosis Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world's deadliest infectious diseases, and its treatment is a complex process that typically involves a multi-drug regimen. One of the mainstay drugs in the TB treatment protocol is Myambutol (ethambutol). This medication works by inhibiting the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for TB. Ethambutol is often used in combination with other drugs, such as isoniazid, rifampin, and pyrazinamide, to prevent drug resistance and improve efficacy.

When a patient is prescribed ethambutol, it's essential to monitor for potential side effects. One particular side effect to be vigilant about is changes in color perception, which can signal optic neuritis. Educating patients about the importance of reporting any vision changes immediately is crucial for preventing long-term damage. Ethambutol is typically used during the initial, intensive phase of treatment and may be continued in the continuation phase, depending on the patient's response and the presence of drug resistance.

Pharmacology Education

An in-depth understanding of pharmacology is essential in healthcare education, particularly for those preparing to engage in the treatment and management of various medical conditions. Pharmacology education encompasses the study of how drugs interact with biological systems and includes understanding drug mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, side effects, and interactions.

The case of ethambutol demonstrates the importance of pharmacology in prescribing and monitoring tuberculosis therapy. Ethambutol's specific action of inhibiting arabinosyl transferase—leading to cell wall synthesis disruption in mycobacteria—is a pharmacological concept that healthcare providers must grasp. Recognizing the adverse effect of color perception changes entails knowledge of the drug's possible impact on the optic nerve. For students, mastering such details about anti-tubercular agents like ethambutol is a step towards responsible prescribing and patient care.

Nursing Exam Preparation

For nursing students, preparing for exams requires a comprehensive understanding of pharmacology, including the treatment regimens and side effects of medications used for various diseases. As part of their exam preparation, nursing students should be able to identify the most common and severe side effects of drugs to provide the highest level of patient care and education.

Studying the side effects of ethambutol equips future nurses with the knowledge to monitor TB patients effectively and to advocate for their safety by recognizing adverse reactions early. Questions on drug side effects, like changes in color perception from ethambutol, often appear in nursing exams, testing students' ability to apply pharmacological knowledge in clinical scenarios. Reviewing clinical case studies and drug profiles, and practicing with past exam questions can significantly enhance exam readiness for nursing students.

NCLEX-RN Study Material

For those preparing for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), understanding the pharmacologic aspects of TB treatment is just as vital as grasping the clinical ones. The NCLEX-RN may include questions on the side effects of drugs like ethambutol, emphasizing the test's focus on safe and effective care environments.

Future registered nurses must be ready to identify and intervene in the case of drug-related complications. NCLEX-RN study material is designed to present a variety of clinical scenarios involving medication management and monitoring. Learning to select the correct side effect, such as identifying changes in color perception as a side effect of ethambutol, demonstrates a candidate's competency in pharmacology. Utilizing NCLEX-RN prep resources, including practice questions and simulations, can help reinforce a test-taker's pharmacological knowledge and preparedness for real-world nursing challenges.