American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

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What is the purpose of allopurinol in medical treatment?

To prevent allergic reactions
To manage blood pressure
To prevent gout attacks
To treat inflammation

The correct answer is: To prevent gout attacks

Allopurinol is primarily utilized in the medical field to prevent gout attacks by reducing the production of uric acid in the body. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to pain and swelling. By inhibiting the enzyme xanthine oxidase, allopurinol decreases uric acid levels, thereby helping to prevent the formation of these crystals and subsequent gout flares. While some medications may play roles in addressing allergic reactions, managing blood pressure, or treating inflammation, these functions are not aligned with allopurinol's therapeutic purpose. The specificity of allopurinol's action on uric acid metabolism distinguishes it as a preventative treatment strategy for gout, making it essential for patients who experience chronic gout conditions.