A client is scheduled to receive chemotherapy drugs that will cause myelosuppression. Which action by the nurse will be most important?
Evaluate gastrointestinal function.
Assess for evidence of cardiac compromise.
Question about changes in taste or smell.
Monitor for temperature changes.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Evaluate gastrointestinal function:
While gastrointestinal function is important to assess for side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting, monitoring for potential infection (fever) takes precedence in the context of myelosuppressive chemotherapy.
B. Assess for evidence of cardiac compromise:
Myelosuppression primarily affects the hematopoietic system, and assessing for cardiac compromise is not the priority in this situation.
C. Question about changes in taste or smell:
Changes in taste or smell are common side effects of chemotherapy, but they are not as critical as monitoring for signs of infection, especially fever.
D. Monitor for temperature changes:
Myelosuppression refers to the suppression of the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells, including white blood cells. Neutropenia, a common side effect of myelosuppressive chemotherapy, increases the risk of infection. Fever may be the only early sign of infection in immunocompromised patients, and it can progress rapidly. Therefore, monitoring for temperature changes is crucial to identify and address potential infections promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. “Do you think you and your daughter may have time to go shopping for a wig between now and the time you begin treatment?”
This option recognizes the patient's concern about hair loss and offers a practical suggestion for preparing for it. It shows empathy and support by involving a family member in the process of coping with potential hair loss.
B. “Most patients just wear a hat or turban and just let their hair grow back following treatment.”
This statement provides an alternative approach to dealing with hair loss by suggesting the use of head coverings like hats or turbans. It emphasizes the temporary nature of the hair loss during treatment.
C. “I would be less concerned about cosmetic changes that you may experience and be more concerned about treating the cancer.”
This option encourages the patient to prioritize the cancer treatment over cosmetic concerns, emphasizing the importance of addressing the underlying health issue. It offers a supportive and empathetic perspective.
D. “Just pray about it.”
This option suggests relying on prayer as a sole coping mechanism, which may not address the patient's emotional concerns effectively. While spirituality and prayer can be important for some individuals, it's essential to provide practical and emotional support as well.
E. “Keep a positive attitude. Just wait until your treatment begins to before you become concerned
about losing your hair, after all, you may not experience hair loss.”
This statement encourages a positive attitude and suggests delaying concerns about hair loss until after treatment has begun. While maintaining a positive outlook is beneficial, it's also important to acknowledge and address the patient's current concerns and provide information about potential side effects.
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