Question

The nurse is collecting data about a 20-year-old female client who has been prescribed isotretinoin for severe acne. The client states that she does not understand why she has to be seen monthly in the office to obtain a refill. What is the best response from the nurse?

A
"A monthly pregnancy test is required for all refills of this medication." Correct Answer (Blank)
B
"The medication is addictive and there is a maximum amount that can be dispensed."
C
"After a month the medication will expire and will have decreased effectiveness if taken. "
D
"When taking this medication, you must have your creatinine monitored monthly."

Answer 1

The nurse's best response is that a monthly pregnancy test is required due to isotretinoin's high risk of causing birth defects. It is regulated under the iPLEDGE program to ensure no pregnancy occurs during treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best response from the nurse in this case would be: "A monthly pregnancy test is required for all refills of this medication." Isotretinoin, commonly known by its brand name Accutane, is a powerful medication used to treat severe acne that has not responded to other treatments. Due to its high risk of causing birth defects, isotretinoin is prescribed under a strict FDA-regulated program called iPLEDGE. Women of childbearing age must prove they are not pregnant before receiving each monthly refill, as pregnancy must be avoided while taking the medication. Additionally, two forms of birth control must be used during treatment due to the high risk of teratogenic effects, which are abnormalities that can develop in an embryo.

This requirement ensures that the patient and the healthcare provider are taking all necessary precautions to prevent pregnancy and its associated risks while the patient is on isotretinoin. Apart from the mandatory monthly pregnancy tests, healthcare providers may also monitor patients for other side effects, but the patient's question specifically pertains to the reason for monthly office visits, which is primarily for pregnancy testing under the iPLEDGE program.