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. To help prevent Tumor Lysis Syndrome.
Encouraging fluid intake is crucial for patients undergoing chemotherapy, especially when there's a risk of Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS). TLS is a potentially serious complication that can occur when cancer cells release their contents into the bloodstream, leading to metabolic imbalances. Adequate hydration helps prevent the concentration of these released substances and reduces the risk of TLS.

B. Staying hydrated decreases oral dryness that the patient may exhibit as a result of chemotherapy.
While hydration is generally important for overall well-being, oral dryness is not typically a direct consequence of bladder cancer chemotherapy. It might be a side effect of certain medications, but the primary concern in this case is likely related to preventing TLS.
C. To help prevent new onset diabetes mellitus.
The rationale for fluid intake in the context of bladder cancer chemotherapy is not typically related to preventing new onset diabetes mellitus. The primary focus is usually on managing potential side effects of chemotherapy and promoting overall health.
D. Because it is better to encourage water Vs. carbonated beverages.
While encouraging water over carbonated beverages is generally a healthy choice, the primary rationale for increased fluid intake in the context of bladder cancer chemotherapy is more specific and related to preventing Tumor Lysis Syndrome.
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.
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