Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Immune System Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Immune System related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a client on tube feedings. The physician has ordered Osmolite HN as the feeding formula for the client. The family asks why the physician has ordered Osmolite HN instead of another formula to feed their family member. What is an important reason that tube-feeding formulas, such as Impact, Immun-Aid, or Perative, be recommended to clients?

  • A. To suppress immune system function
  • B. To block tumor necrosis factor
  • C. To enhance the production of T-cell lymphocytes and NK cells
  • D. To stimulate the immune system to attack tumor cells
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Immune-enhancing tube-feeding formulas enhance the production of lymphocytes and NK cells, resulting in increased cell-mediated immunity. Drugs such as azathioprine, cyclosporine, and muromonab-CD3 suppress immune system function, whereas infliximab and etanercept minimize inflammation by blocking tumor necrosis factor. Aldesleukin is used as biologic therapy for clients who do not respond to conventional cancer treatment. Aldesleukin stimulates the immune system's ability to attack tumor cells.