1. Which of the following components of the immune system is considered the first line of defense against nonself pathogens and consists of physical, biochemical, and cellular defenses against pathogens?

2. Which vitamin is unique compared with other vitamins because it is classified as a fat-soluble steroid hormone precursor and synthesized by the human body via exposure to sunlight?

3. Which of the following factors is known to impair the function of the immune system?

4. Which part of the immune system is responsible for creating an immunological “memory”, whereby a repeated infection with the same pathogen will produce a robust, quick antigen-specific response?

5. A patient is considering the use of supplements and asks about the difference between dietary supplements with the US Pharmacopeia (USP) verification seal and those products without it. What information should you share with the patient?

6. Which of the following patients is most likely to have low levels of vitamin D?

7. Which micronutrients have the most clinical data confirming their role in immune health?

8. A 45-year-old woman presents to the pharmacy requesting a recommendation for immune-enhancing supplements from the pharmacist. The patient has a long history of smoking and hypertension. In which of the following micronutrients is she likely deficient?

9. Which micronutrient was commonly observed at low levels in those with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection?

10. A 55-year-old woman approaches the pharmacy counter seeking advice about supplements for immune health. She has type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. She takes metformin, hydrochlorothiazide, and apixaban to manage her conditions. Prior to recommending any dietary supplements, you should ask about which of the following:

Evaluation Questions

11. How confident are you in your treatment choice for the 55-year-old in question 10?

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