A nurse working in the chemotherapy outpatient department is providing antiemetic therapy using Zofran (ondansetron). The ordered dose is 32 mg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to optimize the efficacy of the medication?
A) Provide the dose as an intramuscular injection 10 min prior to starting chemotherapy.
B) Provide the dose undiluted intravenously over 2 min just prior to starting chemotherapy.
C) Provide the dose diluted in 50 mL of D5W infused intravenously over 15 min at least 30 min prior to starting chemotherapy.
D) Provide the dose diluted in 50 mL of 0.9 NaCl infused intravenously over 5 min, 60 min prior to starting chemotherapy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Providing the dose diluted in 50 mL of D5W infused intravenously over 15 min at least 30 min prior to starting chemotherapy is the best option to optimize the efficacy of Zofran. This allows time for the medication to be fully absorbed and distributed in the body, and also decreases the risk of adverse reactions such as flushing and headache that could occur with rapid IV administration. Intramuscular injection (option A) is not recommended for Zofran as it has poor bioavailability through this route. Option B involves undiluted IV administration, which can increase the risk of adverse reactions. Option D involves a different diluent (0.9 NaCl) than what is recommended (D5W) and infusing the medication too far in advance (60 min) may decrease its effectiveness.

A Nurse Working in the Chemotherapy Outpatient Department Is Providing