In assessing a client with esophageal cancer being treated with radiation therapy, which finding(s) would alert the nurse to a possible side effect of this treatment?
A profound feeling of tiredness
Renal impairment
Expectoration of frothy sputum
Development of bone marrow suppression
The Correct Answer is A
A. A profound feeling of tiredness is a common side effect of radiation therapy due to fatigue caused by the treatment itself and the body's response to cancer.
B. Renal impairment is not a typical direct side effect of radiation therapy for esophageal cancer; it is more commonly associated with treatments targeting the kidneys or systemic therapies.
C. Expectoration of frothy sputum may indicate pulmonary issues or fluid overload but is not a common side effect specifically related to radiation therapy for esophageal cancer.
D. Development of bone marrow suppression is possible but less common specifically with radiation therapy compared to chemotherapy, which is more directly associated with this side effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Measuring abdominal girth may be relevant for assessing potential complications like abdominal distention, but it is not the immediate priority in response to serosanguinous drainage from the nasogastric tube.
B. Continuing to monitor the drainage is appropriate, as serosanguinous fluid is common immediately after surgery and may gradually change as healing progresses. Monitoring allows for the identification of any changes that may require further intervention.
C. Notifying the physician may be necessary if the drainage increases or changes significantly, but immediate action is to observe and assess the drainage trend.
D. Irrigating the nasogastric tube is not warranted unless there is an obstruction or significant change in the drainage; it should only be done based on specific orders or protocols.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Contributing to the medical diagnosis is a secondary goal for nursing care. The nurse's primary role is to ensure patient safety and prevent complications such as falls, which are more likely in patients with sensory and motor impairments.
B. While establishing a baseline for future comparison is important, it is not the most immediate concern. The nurse's priority is preventing falls and injury related to the impairment.
C. The priority in this case is to protect the client from falls or injury, as impaired motor and sensory function in the lower extremities increases the risk for accidents. Preventing injury will guide the development of the care plan, such as implementing fall precautions.
D. Anticipating other neurologic deficits is valuable but not the most urgent concern compared to protecting the client from the immediate risk of falls.
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