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 C
Explanation
A. While stomatitis can cause discomfort and complications, it is not an immediate threat compared to infection risk.
B. The client with leukemia may require monitoring, but the antiemetic is pre-emptive and not immediately critical.
C. The client with neutropenia and a possible infection poses the highest risk, as they are vulnerable to severe complications due to their compromised immune system. Immediate assessment is necessary to manage and treat potential infections promptly.
D. The breast cancer client scheduled for radiation requires care but is not in an urgent condition compared to the neutropenic patient.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Picking up the implant with gloved hands does not ensure safety and proper handling of a radioactive material, as gloves do not provide adequate protection against radiation exposure.
B. Using long-handled forceps to pick up the implant and placing it in a lead container is the correct action, as it minimizes radiation exposure to the nurse and ensures the safe containment of the radioactive source.
C. Calling for the rapid response team is unnecessary in this scenario; the situation requires immediate containment of the radioactive material rather than emergency medical intervention.
D. Calling the radiation oncologist is not the first action; while it is important to inform the physician afterward, the priority is to secure the radioactive implant properly to prevent exposure.
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