Question

The nurse is preparing to administer an infusion of Pentam (pentamidine) to a client with PCP pneumonia. Which lab finding indicates an adverse reaction to the medication? A. \(\mathrm{RBC} 2,500,000 / \mathrm{cu}\). \(\mathrm{mm}\) B. WBC \(7500 /\) cu. mm C. Platelets 200,000/cu. mm D. Neutrophils \(52 \%\)

Short answer

Answer: RBC 2,500,000/cu.mm

Step-by-step solution

Option A: RBC 2,500,000/cu.mm

The normal range for red blood cells (RBC) is around 4,000,000 to 6,000,000/cu.mm. In this case, the RBC count is 2,500,000/cu.mm, which is lower than the normal range. A decrease in RBC count might indicate an adverse reaction to the medication.

Option B: WBC 7500/cu.mm

The normal range for white blood cells (WBC) is around 4,500 to 11,000/cu.mm. In this case, the WBC count is 7,500/cu.mm, which is within the normal range. Thus, this lab finding does not indicate an adverse reaction to the medication.

Option C: Platelets 200,000/cu.mm

The normal range for platelets is around 150,000 to 450,000/cu.mm. In this case, the platelet count is 200,000/cu.mm, which is within the normal range. This lab finding does not indicate an adverse reaction to the medication.

Option D: Neutrophils 52%

The normal range for neutrophils is around 45% to 70%. In this case, the percentage of neutrophils is 52%, which is within the normal range. This lab finding does not indicate an adverse reaction to the medication.

Conclusion

Among the given options, Option A (RBC 2,500,000/cu.mm) indicates an adverse reaction to the medication Pentam (pentamidine) as it is lower than the normal range for red blood cells.

Key concepts

PCP Pneumonia

PCP pneumonia, also known as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, is a serious lung infection. It primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. This infection is caused by a fungus called Pneumocystis jirovecii. It can lead to symptoms such as

• coughing
• fever
• difficulty breathing
• chest pain

It's vital for patients diagnosed with PCP pneumonia to receive prompt and effective treatment. This is often done with medications like Pentamidine, which helps in managing the infection. PCP pneumonia can be life-threatening if not treated effectively and early medical intervention is key.
Understanding the implications of PCP pneumonia is essential for healthcare providers, as it involves careful monitoring and timely decision-making to ensure the well-being of the patient.

Nursing Exam

Nursing exams are crucial for assessing the knowledge and skills of nurses in various areas, including patient care, pharmacology, and ethics. These exams are designed to evaluate a nurse's ability to make sound judgments in clinical settings.
One aspect that nursing exams often cover is the ability to interpret lab values and detect any deviations that could indicate adverse reactions to medications. This skill is particularly important when administering medications like Pentamidine for conditions such as PCP pneumonia.
Properly preparing for nursing exams involves a solid understanding of pathophysiology, patient scenarios, and medication effects. Practical skills, as well as theoretical knowledge, are tested to ensure nurses can provide comprehensive care.

Lab Values

Understanding lab values is a critical component of healthcare. Lab values give important insights into a patient's health and can guide treatment decisions.
For example, a red blood cell (RBC) count significantly influences the management of patients receiving Pentamidine for PCP pneumonia. A low RBC count, as indicated by a value of 2,500,000/cu.mm, is below the normal range of 4,000,000 to 6,000,000/cu.mm and could indicate an adverse reaction to the medication.

• Red Blood Cells (RBC): Key in transporting oxygen throughout the body.
• White Blood Cells (WBC): Important for the immune response.
• Platelets: Essential for blood clotting.
• Neutrophils: Critical for fighting infections.

By carefully analyzing these lab values, healthcare providers can detect early signs of complications and adjust treatments accordingly.

Pentamidine Infusion

Pentamidine is a medication used to treat PCP pneumonia among other infections. Administered through infusion, it plays a vital role in combating severe fungal infections. However, Pentamidine can have several side effects, which necessitates careful monitoring.
While effective, it can also lead to adverse reactions such as

• lowered RBC counts
• hypoglycemia
• pancreatitis
• nephrotoxicity
• liver abnormalities

Nursing staff involved in administering Pentamidine must be vigilant. They should regularly assess lab values to quickly identify any negative reactions and make necessary treatment adjustments. Continuing education and hands-on training are beneficial in ensuring safe administration and monitoring of this medication.
Overall, understanding how to manage Pentamidine infusions effectively is crucial in providing optimal care for patients with PCP pneumonia.