MSC NCLEX Physiological Integrity Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies Related

Review MSC NCLEX Physiological Integrity Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies related questions and content

The initial treatment regimen of isoniazid, rifampin, and ethambutol is prescribed for the adolescent who has a positive tuberculin skin test. The client confides that she thinks she may be pregnant and asks if she should be taking these medications. Which rationale should be the basis for the nurse's response?

  • A. These drugs cross the placental barrier, and treatment should be withheld until the postpartum period.
  • B. The medications should be taken, but the diagnosis is an indication for termination of the pregnancy.
  • C. The medications should be postponed because the risk for hepatitis is greatly increased in the intrapartum period.
  • D. The medications should be taken; untreated TB represents a far greater hazard to the pregnant woman and her fetus.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A: The medications do not cross the placental barrier, so treatment should not be withheld. B: Administering antituberculosis medications would not be an indication for termination of pregnancy because the medications are safe during pregnancy. C: The risk of hepatitis is slightly increased with the use of antituberculosis medications in pregnant women; however, the benefits of treatment strongly outweigh postponement of treatment. D: Infants born to women with untreated TB may be of lower birth weight, but rarely would the infant acquire congenital TB. Isoniazid (Nydrazid), rifampin (Rifadin), and ethambutol (Myambutol) are all considered safe for use in pregnancy.