A patient from Africa is being treated for East African trypanosomiasis. The nurse is preparing to administer the first dose of suramin sodium [Germanin]. To prevent serious side effects, which action will the nurse take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Suramin sodium can cause severe side effects, including a shock-like syndrome with IV dosing. A small test dose should be given initially to make sure this is not likely. Patients receiving pentamidine should be supine while receiving that drug. It is not necessary to provide a fatty snack with suramin or to obtain LFTs before administration.

A Patient from Africa Is Being Treated for East African