A client is being discharged after receiving IV chemotherapy for cancer. Which statement indicates a need for additional teaching?

A. “I will not need to know how to check my body temperature.”:

This statement is incorrect. Monitoring body temperature is important for patients receiving chemotherapy because a compromised immune system increases the risk of infection. Fever can be an early sign of infection, and patients are often instructed to monitor their temperature regularly.

B. “Chemotherapy is excreted in my bodily fluids.”:

This statement is correct. Chemotherapy drugs can be excreted in various bodily fluids, such as urine, sweat, and saliva. Patients are advised to take precautions to avoid exposing others to these bodily fluids during and shortly after chemotherapy.

C. “My spouse will wear gloves when emptying my urinal.”:

This statement is correct. To reduce the risk of exposure to chemotherapy drugs in urine, it is advisable for caregivers, such as spouses, to wear gloves when handling bodily fluids.

D. “The chemotherapy will remain in my body for 2-3 days.”:

This statement is correct. The duration during which chemotherapy remains in the body can vary depending on the specific drugs administered. Patients are typically provided with guidelines on how long they need to take precautions to minimize exposure to others.

A. Avoid elevated altitudes of greater than 2,000 feet (if possible) and air travel for 2-4 weeks (depending on the oncologist’s advice):

Altitude and air travel restrictions are not common recommendations after completing chemotherapy.

B. Avoid foods high in purine for 30-90 days (depending on the oncologist’s advice):

Restrictions on foods high in purine are not typically associated with post-chemotherapy care.

C. Avoid sun exposure for 60-90 days following chemotherapy (depending on oncologist’s advice):

Chemotherapy can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Advising the patient to avoid sun exposure or take precautions such as using sunscreen can help prevent skin damage during this period.

D. Have a solid plan for contraception for 3 months to 2 years (depending on the oncologist’s advice):

Contraception considerations may be important, but the timeframe mentioned is not a standard recommendation following chemotherapy completion. The need for contraception may vary depending on the patient's overall health, reproductive goals, and specific chemotherapy drugs received. This decision is usually discussed with the healthcare provider on an individual basis.