In reviewing the electrolytes of a patient, the nurse notes the serum potassium level has increased from 4.3 mEq/L to 5.9 mEq/L. Which assessment does the nurse initiate first to prevent further harm?

Chemotherapy is a treatment modality used to target and destroy rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. It works by interfering with the cell division process, which is a characteristic of cancer cells. However, it is important to note that chemotherapy drugs can also affect normal, healthy cells in the body that undergo rapid division, such as cells in the bone marrow, hair follicles, and gastrointestinal lining. This is why chemotherapy can be associated with side effects like bone marrow suppression, hair loss, and gastrointestinal disturbances. While the molecular structure of DNA can be altered by certain chemotherapeutic drugs, this explanation is not comprehensive enough to encompass the overall mechanism of action of chemotherapy.

The statement that "cancer cells are susceptible to drug toxins" is partially true, as cancer cells are generally more vulnerable to the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy drugs compared to normal cells.

Chemotherapy aims to disrupt the division and growth of cancer cells rather than promoting their division.

Each of your meals should contain about 10 tablespoons of food: After gastric bypass surgery, the stomach's size is reduced, and the patient's capacity to consume large quantities of food is limited. It is important to educate the patient about appropriate portion sizes to avoid overeating and potential complications.

Be certain to stay hydrated by drinking water: Hydration is crucial after gastric bypass surgery. Patients should be advised to drink enough water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and ensure proper bodily function.

Solid food can be introduced back into the diet in a week: Following gastric bypass surgery, the diet is initially limited to liquid and pureed foods. Gradually, solid foods can be reintroduced into the diet over time, typically after a week or as directed by the surgeon. This information is important for the patient to understand the progression of their diet post-surgery. You are likely to have little urine output for the first few weeks: This statement is not true and may cause unnecessary concern for the patient. Urine output should not be affected by gastric bypass surgery unless there are other complications.

Report any back, shoulder, or abdominal pain to the surgeon: While it is important to report any significant pain or discomfort to the surgeon, including back, shoulder, or abdominal pain, this is not specific to discharge teaching for gastric bypass surgery. Pain management and reporting should be covered during the post-operative care instructions, but it is not limited to discharge teaching alone.