Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

For what purpose was streptokinase first used in 1947?

1. To lower cholesterol levels

2. To dissolve a clotted hemothorax

3. As a vaccine adjuvant

4. To treat chronic pain

The correct answer is: To dissolve a clotted hemothorax

Streptokinase is a medication that was first used in 1947 to dissolve blood clots. This has been its primary purpose and use since then. Although it has been studied and used in various other medical conditions, such as lowering cholesterol levels, acting as a vaccine adjuvant, and treating chronic pain, its most significant and successful application has been in dissolving clots. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the original and primary use of streptokinase.