Nokea
A 7-year-old child with osteosarcoma is being treated with chemotherapy. Which medication would the nurse expect the physician to order most commonly as a prophylaxis against Pneumocystis jirovecii?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Osteosarcoma chemotherapy compromises the immune system, increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections like Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), a serious risk in immunocompromised children. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is the most common prophylactic antibiotic for PCP, effectively preventing this lung infection by targeting its causative organism. Ketoconazole treats fungal infections but not PCP, which is caused by a fungus-like organism requiring specific therapy. Filgrastim stimulates neutrophil production to combat neutropenia, not PCP directly. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, suppresses immunity and reduces tumor-related edema but doesn't prevent infections and may increase risk. The nurse anticipates TMP-SMX due to its established role in pediatric oncology protocols, ensuring protection against a preventable, potentially fatal complication during chemotherapy.