Ms. Smith, a 48 year-old female, is being treated for cancer with chemotherapy with medications that routinely cause myelosuppression. Which lab values would the RN need to especially monitor?
Cardiac Enzymes
Complete Blood Count with differential
Chemistry Profile
Liver Function Tests
The Correct Answer is B
A. Cardiac Enzymes
Cardiac enzymes are markers used to assess heart health and are not directly related to myelosuppression caused by chemotherapy. Monitoring cardiac enzymes is important for assessing heart function but is not the primary concern in the context of myelosuppression.
B. Complete Blood Count with differential
This is the correct choice. The complete blood count (CBC) with differential provides information about the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Since myelosuppression affects blood cell production, monitoring the CBC with differential is crucial to detect and manage any abnormalities in these cell counts.
C. Chemistry Profile
A chemistry profile typically includes measurements of electrolytes, kidney function, and other metabolic parameters. While monitoring overall health is important, the specific concern with myelosuppression and chemotherapy is related to blood cell counts. Therefore, a complete blood count (CBC) is more directly relevant in this context than a chemistry profile.
D. Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests assess the health of the liver and are not directly related to myelosuppression caused by chemotherapy. These tests are important in certain situations, but they do not provide information about blood cell counts, which are the primary concern when dealing with myelosuppression.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Shellfish
Shellfish consumption is not typically contraindicated with targeted cancer therapy. However, it is essential for individuals undergoing cancer treatment to follow a well-balanced and nutritious diet. If there are specific dietary restrictions or recommendations based on an individual's overall health or treatment plan, these should be discussed with the healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.
B. Grapefruit
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice contain compounds that can interfere with the metabolism of certain medications, including many targeted therapies. This can result in either increased or decreased levels of the drug in the bloodstream, potentially affecting the efficacy and safety of the treatment. Therefore, individuals receiving targeted therapy are often advised to avoid grapefruit.
C. Yerba mate
Yerba mate is a type of tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. While it is generally considered safe, specific interactions with targeted cancer therapies are not well-documented. However, it is always advisable for individuals undergoing cancer treatment to consult with their healthcare team regarding dietary choices, including herbal teas.
D. Aged cheese
Aged cheese is not typically contraindicated with targeted cancer therapy. However, dietary recommendations may vary based on individual health conditions and treatment plans. In some cases, certain dietary restrictions or modifications may be advised, so it's important for individuals to discuss their specific dietary needs with their healthcare providers or dietitians.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. “I will not need to know how to check my body temperature.”:
This statement is incorrect. Monitoring body temperature is important for patients receiving chemotherapy because a compromised immune system increases the risk of infection. Fever can be an early sign of infection, and patients are often instructed to monitor their temperature regularly.
B. “Chemotherapy is excreted in my bodily fluids.”:
This statement is correct. Chemotherapy drugs can be excreted in various bodily fluids, such as urine, sweat, and saliva. Patients are advised to take precautions to avoid exposing others to these bodily fluids during and shortly after chemotherapy.
C. “My spouse will wear gloves when emptying my urinal.”:
This statement is correct. To reduce the risk of exposure to chemotherapy drugs in urine, it is advisable for caregivers, such as spouses, to wear gloves when handling bodily fluids.
D. “The chemotherapy will remain in my body for 2-3 days.”:
This statement is correct. The duration during which chemotherapy remains in the body can vary depending on the specific drugs administered. Patients are typically provided with guidelines on how long they need to take precautions to minimize exposure to others.
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