The item shown in the picture below is effective for how many years?

Appeared in: NORCERT 8 Mains-2025

Explanation

The image displays a single-rod subdermal contraceptive implant, which is characteristic of brands like Nexplanon or Implanon.
This type of implant contains the progestin hormone etonogestrel.
The device releases the hormone slowly over time, providing effective contraception for a duration of 3 years.
After 3 years, the implant should be removed, and a new one can be inserted if continued contraception is desired.

Option A: A 5-year duration is incorrect for the single-rod implant shown. This duration is associated with different implant systems.
Option B: A 2-year duration is not a standard effective period for any commonly used subdermal contraceptive implant.
Option C: A 10-year duration is incorrect for a hormonal subdermal implant.

Visual 1: Comparison Chart - An infographic comparing single-rod (Nexplanon), two-rod (Jadelle), and six-rod (Norplant) implants, showing the number of rods, hormone, and effective duration for each.
Visual 2: Anatomical Diagram - A diagram showing the correct placement site for a subdermal implant in the inner upper arm, highlighting the triceps muscle and avoiding the neurovascular bundle in the bicipital groove.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Duration of effectiveness for subdermal contraceptive implants as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients about different contraceptive options, including their duration, side effects, and proper use.
A key counseling point for progestin-only implants is the high likelihood of irregular bleeding, which is the most common reason for discontinuation. Reassurance and education can improve patient adherence.
Nurses assist with the insertion and removal procedure and are responsible for post-procedure care, including applying a pressure bandage and ensuring both the nurse and patient can palpate the implant to confirm correct placement.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the image provided. Identify the key feature, which is a single, rod-shaped object under the skin of the arm.
Recognize this object as a subdermal contraceptive implant.
Recall or deduce the different types of subdermal implants based on the number of rods.
Associate the single-rod appearance with the Nexplanon or Implanon system.
Access your knowledge about the duration of effectiveness for this specific type of implant.
Select the option that correctly states the duration for a single-rod etonogestrel implant, which is 3 years.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Duration of effectiveness for subdermal contraceptive implants.
Stem keywords: item shown in the picture, effective, years
Lead-in keywords: how many
Clinical cues: Image shows a single-rod implant under the skin of the upper arm.

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Practise the full NORCERT 8 Mains-2025

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