Drugs Affecting Infection & Immune Systems

HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9): What is it used for and what type of immunity does it provide?

Prevents HPV-related cancers and genital warts. Produces active immunity by stimulating antibody formation. It does not treat ACTIVE INFECTIONS

Cyclosporine: Why is it given after an organ transplant?

Suppresses T-cell immune response to prevent graft rejection and prolong graft survival. Major concern: nephrotoxicity

Chemotherapy: What major blood-cell complication should the nurse monitor for?

Myelosuppression → ↓ RBCs, WBCs, and platelets → anemia, infection, and bleeding risk. Monitor CBC.

Isoniazid: What major adverse effect should the nurse monitor for?

Hepatotoxicity. Monitor AST/ALT at baseline and monthly. Teach patient to avoid alcohol.

Rifampin: What unusual finding should the patient expect?

Red-orange urine, sweat, tears, and other body fluids. Also monitor for hepatotoxicity.

Remdesivir: What is the desired therapeutic outcome?

Improvement in respiratory status. Monitor liver enzymes, bradycardia, hypersensitivity, and infusion reactions.

Acyclovir: What organ is the nurse especially concerned about?

Kidneys. Risk of acute kidney injury. Encourage 2–3 L/day fluids and monitor renal function.

Oseltamivir (Tamiflu): What infection does it treat?

Influenza A and B. Inhibits neuraminidase and prevents newly formed virus from spreading to other cells.

Fluconazole: What serious adverse effect requires monitoring?

Hepatotoxicity. Monitor ALT, AST, and bilirubin during therapy.

Metronidazole: What important teaching must the nurse give?

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can cause a disulfiram-like reaction: flushing, headache, N/V, and abdominal/chest pain.

Mebendazole: How does the nurse determine if treatment worked?

Obtain a stool sample after 3 weeks. Desired result: negative for ova and parasites.

Permethrin: What conditions does it treat and how is it given?

Treats lice and scabies. Applied topically. Lice: 10 min; scabies: head-to-toe for 8–14 hr.