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 C
Explanation
A. "O2 @ 2L NC and titrate to keep SPO2 approximately 88-92%"
While oxygen therapy is essential in COPD exacerbation, the specific target range may vary based on the patient's condition and arterial blood gas values. The nurse may need to assess the patient's response and adjust oxygen accordingly.
B. "Prednisone 20 mg PO daily for one year"
Prescribing prednisone at a dose of 20 mg PO daily for one year seems unusual for the treatment of a COPD exacerbation. Steroid therapy is commonly used in exacerbations, but the duration and dose may vary. This prescription may need clarification.
C. "Albuterol nebulizer treatment q 1 hour prn respiratory distress"
This prescription is consistent with the management of an exacerbation of COPD. Albuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist bronchodilator that is commonly used in the treatment of acute respiratory distress in patients with COPD. The "q 1 hour prn respiratory distress" indicates that the medication can be administered every 1 hour as needed for relief of respiratory distress during the exacerbation.
D. "Cromolyn 20 mg inhaled via nebulization QID"
Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer and is not typically a first-line medication for the treatment of COPD exacerbation. This prescription may warrant clarification, especially in the context of an acute exacerbation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Seasonal allergy only
Montelukast may be used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis associated with seasonal allergies, but its primary use is for asthma prevention.
B. Severe asthmatic attacks
Montelukast is not typically used for the treatment of severe asthmatic attacks. Short-acting bronchodilators and systemic corticosteroids are more commonly used in this scenario.
C. Acute bronchospasm
While montelukast has a role in the prevention of bronchospasm, it is not typically used for the acute treatment of bronchospasm. Short-acting bronchodilators are more appropriate for immediate relief of bronchospasm.
D. Maintenance and prevention of asthma
Montelukast (Singulair) is used for the maintenance and prevention of asthma. It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators involved in the pathophysiology of asthma. By inhibiting leukotrienes, montelukast helps to reduce airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction, thereby preventing asthma symptoms.
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