Question

A pediatric patient is prescribed somatropin [Humatrope] for growth hormone deficiency. It is most appropriate for the nurse to take which action?

A.Perform a venipuncture to give the medication intravenously.
B.Obtain a straw to prevent staining of the tooth enamel.
C.Draw up the drug into a syringe and give it subcutaneously.
D.Mix the medication in 30 mL of fruit juice.

Answer 1

The most appropriate action for administering somatropin [Humatrope], a drug for growth hormone deficiency, is to give it subcutaneously, not intravenously or orally.

Step-by-step explanation:

A pediatric patient prescribed somatropin [Humatrope] for growth hormone deficiency should have the medication administered by drawing up the drug into a syringe and giving it subcutaneously. Somatropin is a form of human growth hormone (HGH) that is essential for growth and cell reproduction.

Subcutaneous administration involves injecting the drug into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, which allows for a slow release and consistent levels of the hormone in the bloodstream. Intravenous administration is not typically used for somatropin, and mixing the medication in juice or using a straw relates to other types of medications or treatment considerations.