Immune Agents

Question 1

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)

is used for

Answer 1

Immunosuppressant: Prophylaxis of transplant rejection

Question 2

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)

Adverse effects

Answer 2

• Decrease immune response
• Very high risk of infection
• Leukopenia- decreased WBC

Question 3

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune) Nursing Concerns:

Answer 3

• Complete physical examination with attention directed towards renal function (BUN, Creatinine, urinary function and weight) and liver function
• Lab studies should be performed and documented before, during (monthly) and after therapy (evaluation)
• Careful hand washing techniques
• Avoid invasive medical procedures
• Avoid tampons, rectal temperature and rectal suppositories
• Frequent and meticulous mouth care
• Bath with antibacterial soap -Avoid crowds
• Dressing and bandages should be changed daily and whenever soiled
• Protect skin from abrasions and lacerations
• Wear shoes
• Keep supplies separate from supplies for other patients (cups, straws, gloves)
• Don’t drink any standing water or from same container used by another individual
• Avoid fresh fruits, vegetables, and uncooked foods in the diet
• Report sore throat, fever, chills and joint pain
• Take prophylactic medications before the surgery

Question 4

Prednisone (Deltasone)

Answer 4

Oral & Parenteral corticosteroid

Question 5

Prednisone (Deltasone)

is used for

Answer 5

• Widely used as an immunosuppressant
• Long term management of chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or chronic lung disease
• Short term treatment of severe inflammation (acute exacerbations) such as that associated with infections, dermatitis, bronchitis, or asthma
• Trauma to the head/spinal cord injuries

Question 6

Prednisone (Deltasone)

advers effects

Answer 6

Adrenal insufficiency 
Osteoporosis 
Infection 
Elevated glucose 
Fluid and electrolyte changes 
Adipose tissue redistribution (Cushing’s syndrome)

Question 7

Prednisone (Deltasone)

nursing concerns

Answer 7

-Never administer in patient with fungal infection
-Do not administer vaccines to patients on steroids
-May reactivate dormant tuberculosis
-Affects metabolic function including protein, carbohydrate, and fat metabolism; also affects fluid and electrolyte balance
-Administer oral medication with food
Only given when benefits overweight risks

Question 8

Patient Diagnosis/ Care Plan
for Prednisone (Deltasone)

Answer 8

• Risk of infection related to the use of steroids (immunosuppression)
• Risk of injury related to steroid induced side effects
• Knowledge deficit in patients related to therapeutic regimen
• Patient may exhibit a decrease in signs and symptoms of disease
• Patient may exhibit no symptoms of infection
• Patient should have verbal understanding of drug action, administration, and side effects

Question 9

Patient interventions for Prednisone (Deltasone)

Answer 9

• Monitor Vitals
• Monitor for infection/Protect patient from infection or injury
• Administer medications at same time daily


Question 10

Patient assessment for Prednisone (Deltasone)

Answer 10

Complete Health History
Serum Sodium/Potassium level
Hematocrit/Hemoglobin levels
Blood glucose levels
 BUN