What should the nurse instruct a client about acitretin (Soriatane) for psoriasis?

Question

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. "You will need to be on this medication for 2 to 3 months."
2. "The psoriasis may return after discontinuing this medication."
3. "At least two negative pregnancy tests are needed before starting this medication."
4. "You will need to use birth control for 3 years after discontinuing this drug."
5. "Reduce alcohol intake while taking this medication."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 2, 3, 4, 5
Rationale 1: Two to three months of therapy may be required for significant symptomatic improvement but the client is on the therapy long-term.
Rationale 2: The lesions return soon after therapy is discontinued.
Rationale 3: This medication is teratogenic, and at least two negative pregnancy tests should be obtained before beginning therapy.
Rationale 4: This medication is pregnancy category X, and the client must use birth control for 3 years after discontinuing therapy.
Rationale 5: This medication is highly toxic to the liver, and the client should refrain from drinking any alcohol when taking this medication.
Global Rationale: The lesions return soon after therapy is discontinued. This medication is teratogenic, and at least two negative pregnancy tests should be obtained before beginning therapy; the client must use birth control for 3 years after discontinuing therapy. This medication is highly toxic to the liver, and the client should refrain from drinking any alcohol when taking this medication. Two to three months of therapy may be required for significant symptomatic improvement but the client is on the therapy long-term.