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What precaution should be taken before initiating HBO therapy for a patient taking doxorubicin (Adriamycin)?
Administer HBO therapy immediately
Wait 3 days for the drug to clear the body
Increase dosage of doxorubicin
Consult a specialist for approval
The correct answer is: Wait 3 days for the drug to clear the body
Before initiating hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy for a patient who is taking doxorubicin (Adriamycin), it is important to wait for a period of time to allow the drug to clear the body. Doxorubicin is an anthracycline antibiotic that has well-documented side effects and interactions, particularly with treatments like HBO therapy. One significant concern with combining HBO therapy and doxorubicin is that both treatments can exert effects on the cardiovascular system. Doxorubicin can increase the risk of cardiotoxicity, and HBO therapy itself can lead to variations in blood pressure and heart rate due to increased atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels. By waiting for the drug to clear, it minimizes the potential for adverse interactions that could exacerbate these cardiovascular risks. Additionally, the body metabolizes doxorubicin over a certain period, and allowing time for clearance helps ensure that the drug is at a less significant level in the bloodstream, reducing the risk of complications during HBO therapy. In summary, taking a precautionary approach to wait for doxorubicin clearance is essential to promote patient safety and optimize the therapeutic outcomes of HBO therapy.