1. Pick an infection of interest to you (i.e. HIV, Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, STD). 2. What is the incidence and prevalence of the infection in your state? 3. Pick one drug used in the treatment of the infection. a. Provide generic/trade name b. Drug class c. Mechanism of action d. Side effects (list 3) e. Nursing implications

1. Introduction

Infections are a significant global public health concern, causing substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among the various infectious diseases, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), Hepatitis, Tuberculosis, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) have garnered extensive attention due to their high incidence and prevalence rates. This academic work aims to explore one of these infections of interest and provide detailed information regarding its incidence and prevalence in a specific state, along with the pharmacological treatment and associated nursing implications.

2. Incidence and Prevalence of the Chosen Infection in a Specific State

For this assignment, Hepatitis B will be chosen as the infection of interest. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood or body fluids, sexual contact, or from mother to child during childbirth. The incidence and prevalence rates of Hepatitis B can vary significantly from one state to another.

In the state of California, based on the latest available data from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the estimated incidence of acute Hepatitis B cases in 2019 was approximately 883 cases (CDPH, 2020). However, it is important to note that these figures may underestimate the true incidence since not all cases are reported. Furthermore, the prevalence of chronic Hepatitis B infection in California is estimated to be around 200,000 individuals (CDPH, 2020). This highlights the ongoing burden of Hepatitis B in the state and the need for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

3. Drug Used in the Treatment of Hepatitis B

a. Generic/Trade Name: Entecavir/Baraclude

b. Drug Class: Antiviral

c. Mechanism of Action: Entecavir is a nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that selectively inhibits the reverse transcriptase enzyme of the Hepatitis B virus. By doing so, it prevents the conversion of viral RNA into DNA, thereby interrupting viral replication and reducing the viral load in infected individuals.

d. Side Effects:
1. Headache: Entecavir treatment has been reported to cause mild to moderate headaches in some patients. These headaches usually resolve on their own or with symptomatic treatment.
2. Fatigue: Fatigue is a commonly reported side effect of entecavir and can affect some individuals during the course of treatment. Patients should be advised to rest and pace themselves accordingly.
3. Nausea: Some patients may experience mild nausea as a side effect of entecavir treatment. This can usually be managed by taking the medication with food or as directed by the healthcare provider.

e. Nursing Implications:

i. Administration: Entecavir is usually administered orally, and the prescribed dosage should be carefully followed. It is important to educate patients about the importance of adhering to the prescribed dosing schedule and not to take more or less medication unless instructed by their healthcare provider.

ii. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function tests, including alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), is essential to assess the effectiveness of treatment and monitor for any potential hepatotoxicity. Nurses should ensure that accurate laboratory tests are ordered and results are carefully reviewed.

iii. Patient Education: Patients should be educated about the need to practice safe sex, avoid sharing needles or other equipment associated with blood exposure, and the importance of vaccination for Hepatitis B. Additionally, patients should be informed about potential drug interactions or contraindications for entecavir, such as with certain antiretroviral agents, which may require close monitoring or alternative treatment options.

iv. Adverse Effects: Nurses should be vigilant in assessing patients for any signs of severe adverse effects, such as lactic acidosis or hepatomegaly. Prompt reporting and appropriate management of these adverse effects are crucial for patient safety.

4. Conclusion

In summary, Hepatitis B is a significant public health concern in California, with notable incidence and prevalence rates. The antiviral drug Entecavir, belonging to the NRTI drug class, is commonly used for the treatment of Hepatitis B. Nurses play a crucial role in the administration, monitoring, patient education, and recognition of potential adverse effects associated with Entecavir treatment. By providing comprehensive nursing care and ensuring patient compliance, nurses contribute to the effective management and prevention of Hepatitis B infections.