Anti-pruritics are used to?

Appeared in: CGHS SSC - 2018

Explanation

The term 'pruritus' is the medical definition for itching.
The prefix 'anti-' means against or opposing.
Therefore, an anti-pruritic agent is a medication specifically formulated to counteract or relieve the sensation of itching.
Examples include topical agents like calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream, and oral medications like antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine, cetirizine).

Option B: Medications used to prevent or control seizures (convulsions) are known as anticonvulsants or anti-epileptic drugs.
Option C: Medications used to reduce fever are called antipyretics.
Option D: Medications used to suppress or relieve coughing are known as antitussives or cough suppressants.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacology: Drug Classifications and Indications as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses frequently manage patients with pruritus, which can be a symptom of skin disorders, systemic diseases (like kidney or liver failure), or medication side effects.
Key nursing interventions for pruritus include patient education on skin care (e.g., using tepid water, applying emollients to moist skin), avoiding triggers (like excessive heat or irritating fabrics), and administering prescribed antipruritic medications.
It is important to assess the underlying cause of itching, as it can be a sign of a serious systemic disease.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question based on pharmacological terminology.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'Anti-pruritics'.
Break down the term: 'Anti-' means against, and 'pruritic' relates to 'pruritus'.
Recall the medical definition of 'pruritus', which is the sensation of itching.
Combine the parts: 'Anti-pruritic' means 'against itching'.
Scan the options to find the one that matches this definition. 'Relieve itching' is a direct match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 4 p. 69-71

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 177-179

E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 2 p. 267-269

Practise the full CGHS SSC - 2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.