NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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What is the role of ESAs in the treatment of CKD-related anemia?

  1. Increase platelet count

  2. Reduce the need for blood transfusions

  3. Lower blood pressure

  4. Decrease iron levels

The correct answer is: Reduce the need for blood transfusions

ESAs, or erythropoietin-stimulating agents, play a crucial role in the treatment of CKD-related anemia by stimulating the production of red blood cells. This is significant because CKD patients often have a low red blood cell count, leading to anemia. By increasing the production of red blood cells, ESAs help to alleviate anemia symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. None of the other choices listed address the specific issue of anemia in CKD patients. A) Increasing platelet count is not relevant to the treatment of anemia, as platelets are responsible for blood clotting. C) Lowering blood pressure is important for managing CKD, but it does not directly address anemia. D) Decreasing iron levels is also not relevant, as anemia in CKD patients is often caused by a lack of production, not a lack of iron. Only option B, reducing the need for blood transfusions, is correct, as blood transfusions may be necessary to treat severe anemia but have potential risks and complications.