Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies NCLEX Related

Review Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies NCLEX related questions and content

When teaching a client about anti-retroviral therapy for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the PN should emphasize:

  • A. When started, therapy must not be interrupted to prevent viral resistance
  • B. When started, therapy must not be interrupted to prevent opportunistic infection
  • C. Therapy should be interrupted for one day each month to prevent toxicity
  • D. Therapy should be interrupted for one week every three months to prevent toxicity
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: HIV mutates very rapidly, and any interruption of therapy can allow viral resistance to emerge - even taking a dose late. Choice B is incorrect because, when the virus is kept in check with anti-retrovirals, the client's own immune system is able to keep opportunistic infections at bay. Choices C and D are incorrect because therapy should not be interrupted for any reason. If the client develops toxicity, another anti-retroviral drug might be prescribed.