Which nursing intervention would help minimize side effects in a client receiving antithymocyte (Atgam) therapy?

Question

1. Administering acetaminophen
2. Providing cough syrup
3. Limiting visitors
4. Limiting fluid intake

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Acetaminophen will help prevent the flulike symptoms that accompany cytokine release syndrome.
Rationale 2: Cough syrup is not indicated.
Rationale 3: There is no indication to limit visitors.
Rationale 4: Fluid intake should be increased.
Global Rationale: The most common adverse effects are fever, chills, malaise, headache, diarrhea, itching, and other flulike symptoms. Corticosteroids, antihistamines, or acetaminophen may be administered 1 hour prior to antithymocyte globulin therapy to prevent cytokine release syndrome. Cough syrup, limiting visitors, and limiting fluid intake are not indicated.