Immune Suppressants - General

Question 1

Overview

Answer 1

• Immune suppressants are used to depress the immune system when needed to prevent transplant rejection or severe tissue damage associated with autoimmune disease
• Increased susceptibility to infection and increased risk of neoplasm are potentially dangerous effects associated with the use of these

Question 2

Assessment

Answer 2

• History: Allergy, any possible contraindications or cautions
• Physical: VS, orientation and reflexes, baseline ECG, monitor lab tests

Question 3

Nursing diagnoses

Answer 3

• Acute pain r/t CNS, GI, and flu-like effects
• Risk for infection r/t immunosuppression
• Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements r/t N/V
• Deficient knowledge

Question 4

Implementation

Answer 4

• Arrange for lab tests before and periodically during treatment
• Administer drug as indicated
• Protect from exposure to infections
• Monitor nutritional status
• Instruct females to use barrier contraceptives
• Pt teaching

Question 5

Evaluation

Answer 5

• Monitor patient response
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching plan
• Evaluate the effectiveness of comfort measures
• Evaluate patient compliance with the regimen