A client has an order for streptokinase. Before administering the medication, the nurse should assess the client for: A. Allergies to pineapples and bananas B. A history of streptococcal infections C. Prior therapy with phenytoin D. A history of alcohol abuse

When administering medications such as streptokinase, nurses play a critical role in ensuring patient safety and the efficacy of the treatment.

Nursing considerations include a thorough review of the patient's medical history, understanding the purpose of the medication, and anticipating potential side effects or interactions with other drugs. For streptokinase, specifically, it is crucial to assess for any history of streptococcal infections, since antibodies from previous infections could lead to allergic reactions.

Other considerations involve monitoring the patient's vital signs, especially during and after the administration of medication, and being prepared to manage adverse reactions promptly. Educating the patient about the purpose of the drug, its benefits, and any potential side effects is also a key nursing responsibility.

Allergic reactions are an important consideration with any medication, including streptokinase. These reactions can range from mild, such as skin rashes, to severe, like anaphylaxis.

Before administering a medication, nurses must assess for any known allergies, especially those related to the medication's composition. In the case of streptokinase, a history of streptococcal infections could increase the risk of an allergic response due to the potential presence of antibodies.

Should an allergic reaction occur, it is crucial for the nurse to recognize the signs immediately and intervene according to the severity of the reaction, which may involve stopping the medication infusion and administering antihistamines, corticosteroids, or even epinephrine in the event of anaphylaxis.

Pharmacology is a foundational aspect of nursing care. Understanding how medications such as streptokinase act on the body, their therapeutic uses, and potential side effects is imperative.

In pharmacology education, nurses learn that streptokinase acts by breaking down blood clots, which is beneficial in treating conditions like myocardial infarction. However, this same action can also increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, nurses must be knowledgeable about contraindications, such as recent surgery or active bleeding, which would make the use of streptokinase unsafe.

Additionally, nurses must be familiar with dose calculations, routes of administration, and the importance of timing in drug delivery to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with medication use.

A comprehensive medical history assessment is crucial prior to the administration of any medication, including streptokinase.

This assessment helps identify any contraindications to therapy and potential risks for adverse effects. For streptokinase, pertinent history includes prior infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which may have resulted in antibody production that can affect the drug's efficacy and safety.

Assessing patient history also involves scrutinizing past medication usage, allergies, surgeries, and alcohol or substance use. While option D, a history of alcohol abuse, may not be a direct contraindication, it may influence the patient's overall health status and should be taken into account when administering medications that affect blood clotting.