A client with lymphoma asks the nurse about the potential risk factors for the development of this condition.
What response by the nurse is accurate?

Choice A rationale:

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, which are large, abnormal B lymphocytes with multi-lobed nuclei.

These cells are typically present in HL and are a hallmark feature that distinguishes it from non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

Reed-Sternberg cells are not found in NHL.

This difference in cell type is one of the main distinctions between HL and NHL.

Choice B rationale:

This statement is not accurate.

NHL can originate from both T cells and B cells, while HL primarily originates from B cells.

However, the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells is the more distinguishing feature between the two.

Choice C rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

HL and NHL have different clinical manifestations, and their pathogenesis and treatment also differ significantly.

While some symptoms may overlap, they are not the same.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is incorrect.

HL primarily affects lymph nodes, and it can also spread to other organs.

NHL, on the other hand, can affect various organs, including lymph nodes, but it does not primarily affect the digestive tract.

Again, the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells is a more critical distinguishing factor.

Choice A rationale:

Administer intravenous fluids as prescribed.

Lymphoma patients may experience fluid and electrolyte imbalances due to factors such as nausea, vomiting, and treatment-related side effects.

Administering intravenous fluids as prescribed can help maintain hydration and electrolyte balance, especially if the patient is unable to tolerate oral intake.

Choice B rationale:

Encourage the patient to consume caffeine and alcohol.

Encouraging the consumption of caffeine and alcohol is not appropriate for a patient with lymphoma who needs to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

Both caffeine and alcohol can have diuretic effects and may worsen dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Choice C rationale:

Teach the patient to report signs of imbalance.

Educating the patient to report signs of fluid and electrolyte imbalance is important for early detection and intervention.

However, this alone is not sufficient as an intervention.

Actual measures to address the imbalance, such as administering fluids or adjusting the treatment plan, should be implemented based on the patient's condition.

Choice D rationale:

Administer diuretics as prescribed.

Administering diuretics should not be the first-line intervention for a patient with lymphoma who is at risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalance.

Diuretics can exacerbate these imbalances and should only be used when medically necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.