A nurse is preparing a client who is to receive chemotherapy for treatment of ovarian cancer. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Tell the client to expect dark stools following chemotherapy.
Have the client swish with commercial mouthwash before therapy.
Administer an antiemetic prior to the procedure.
Have the client floss 4 times daily.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Tell the client to expect dark stools following chemotherapy
Dark stools are not a common side effect of chemotherapy. This symptom is more often associated with gastrointestinal bleeding or the use of certain medications, such as iron supplements or bismuth-containing compounds. Chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects, but dark stools are not typically one of them. Therefore, it is not necessary to inform the client to expect this symptom.
Choice B reason: Have the client swish with commercial mouthwash before therapy
While maintaining oral hygiene is important during chemotherapy, using a commercial mouthwash before therapy is not specifically recommended. Some commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol or other irritants that can exacerbate oral mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy. Instead, clients are often advised to use a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash or a saline rinse to maintain oral hygiene and prevent infections.
Choice C reason: Administer an antiemetic prior to the procedure
Administering an antiemetic prior to chemotherapy is a standard practice to prevent nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects of many chemotherapeutic agents. Antiemetics help to improve the client’s comfort and adherence to the treatment regimen by reducing these distressing symptoms. This proactive approach is crucial in managing the side effects of chemotherapy and ensuring that the client can tolerate the treatment.
Choice D reason: Have the client floss 4 times daily
Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene, but flossing 4 times daily is excessive and can cause irritation or damage to the gums, especially in clients undergoing chemotherapy who may have a higher risk of oral mucositis and bleeding. It is generally recommended to floss once daily and to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to maintain oral health without causing additional trauma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Pruritus: Pruritus, or itching, can be uncomfortable and may indicate underlying conditions such as dry skin, allergies, or liver disease. However, it is not typically an immediate threat to health and can often be managed with topical treatments or antihistamines.
Choice B reason:
Swollen gums: Swollen gums can be a sign of gingivitis or other dental issues. While important to address, it is not usually an urgent condition unless it is causing severe pain or infection. Dental problems can lead to complications if untreated, but they are generally not life-threatening.
Choice C reason:
Dysphagia: Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a serious condition that can lead to aspiration, malnutrition, and dehydration. It can be caused by neurological disorders, structural abnormalities, or other medical conditions. Because it can directly impact the client’s ability to eat and drink safely, it is a priority for immediate assessment and intervention.
Choice D reason:
Urinary hesitancy: Urinary hesitancy, or difficulty starting urination, can be a symptom of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or other urinary tract issues. While it can cause discomfort and lead to urinary retention, it is generally not as immediately life-threatening as dysphagia.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Type and match for 2 units of packed RBCs
This option is not typically part of the initial management of sepsis. Typing and matching for blood transfusion is generally reserved for patients who are experiencing significant blood loss or severe anemia. In this case, the patient’s hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are within normal ranges, indicating that a blood transfusion is not immediately necessary. The primary focus in the first hour of sepsis management is to stabilize the patient through fluid resuscitation, infection control, and monitoring vital signs.
Choice B: Rapidly administer 30 mL/kg of normal saline
Rapid fluid resuscitation is a critical component of sepsis management. Administering 30 mL/kg of normal saline helps to restore intravascular volume, improve tissue perfusion, and prevent organ failure. This intervention is particularly important in patients with hypotension or elevated lactate levels, as it helps to maintain adequate blood pressure and oxygen delivery to tissues. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines recommend this approach to stabilize patients and prevent further complications.
Choice C: Measure lactate level
Measuring lactate levels is essential in the early management of sepsis. Elevated lactate levels indicate tissue hypoperfusion and anaerobic metabolism, which are hallmarks of sepsis and septic shock. Monitoring lactate levels helps to assess the severity of the condition and guide further treatment decisions. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines emphasize the importance of measuring lactate levels within the first hour of sepsis recognition. If the initial lactate level is elevated, it should be remeasured to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions.
Choice D: Obtain blood cultures
Obtaining blood cultures before administering antibiotics is crucial for identifying the causative pathogen and tailoring antibiotic therapy. Blood cultures help to determine the source of infection and guide appropriate antimicrobial treatment. Early identification and targeted therapy are essential for improving patient outcomes in sepsis. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines recommend obtaining blood cultures as part of the initial management of sepsis.
Choice E: Obtain a wound culture
Obtaining a wound culture is important in this case because the patient has a wound with purulent drainage, which could be a potential source of infection. Identifying the specific pathogen responsible for the wound infection allows for targeted antibiotic therapy, which is more effective than broad-spectrum antibiotics. This intervention helps to control the source of infection and prevent further complications. The Surviving Sepsis Campaign guidelines support source control measures, including obtaining wound cultures, as part of the initial management of sepsis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.