Lindane is a?

Appeared in: NCL (MP) Nursing Officer - 2019

Explanation

Lindane is the common name for the purified gamma isomer of Benzene Hexachloride (BHC).
BHC is an organochlorine insecticide, chemically known as hexachlorocyclohexane.
Lindane specifically refers to the form containing at least 99% gamma-BHC, which is the most insecticidally active isomer of BHC.

Option A: DDT (Dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane) is also an organochlorine insecticide, but it is a different chemical compound from BHC/Lindane.
Option C: Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide, which belongs to a different chemical class than organochlorines. Organophosphates act by inhibiting the enzyme cholinesterase.
Option D: Fenthion is also an organophosphate insecticide, similar to Malathion in its chemical class and mechanism of action.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Chemical classification of insecticides as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Lindane is used topically to treat ectoparasitic infestations like scabies and lice, but it is considered a second-line therapy due to its potential for neurotoxicity.
Nurses must educate patients on the correct application of Lindane (thin layer, specific duration, thorough washing) to minimize systemic absorption and risk of adverse effects.
It is critical to assess for contraindications, such as a history of seizures, pregnancy, or use in infants, before administration.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which asks for the chemical classification or identity of 'Lindane'.
This is a factual recall question based on knowledge from pharmacology or community health nursing (preventive medicine).
Recall the major classes of insecticides: organochlorines, organophosphates, carbamates, and pyrethroids.
Mentally place each option into its respective class. Lindane is known to be a specific, purified isomer of BHC (Benzene Hexachloride).
Evaluate the other options: DDT is another organochlorine, while Malathion and Fenthion are organophosphates.
Since Lindane is a form of BHC, select BHC as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart B (pp 233-449 of 464) p. 100-102

Practise the full NCL (MP) Nursing Officer - 2019

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