The nursing student correctly identifies what advantage of cyclosporine for the prevention of allograft rejection?

Question

1. Increases white blood cell count
2. Can be administered subcutaneously
3. Decreases the risk of infection
4. Is less harmful to bone marrow

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Cyclosporine does not increase the white cell count; it decreases it.
Rationale 2: The route of administration for cyclosporine is PO, IV ophthalmic.
Rationale 3: Cyclosporine does not decrease the risk of infection; it increases it.
Rationale 4: Cyclosporine is less harmful to bone marrow cells.
Global Rationale: Unlike some of the more cytotoxic immunosuppressants, cyclosporine is less harmful to bone marrow cells. When prescribed for transplant recipients, it is often used in combination with a corticosteroid such as prednisone. The drug decreases white blood cell count, is administered orally, intravenously, or as an ophthalmic, and increases risk for infection.