The nurse is assessing a patient with prostate cancer who is receiving chemotherapy.
What findings will the nurse identify as potential toxicities of this treatment? Select All That Apply.

Choice A rationale

Wearing a dosimeter badge is essential for healthcare workers handling radioactive materials to monitor exposure, but it is not a standard practice for handling chemotherapy, which is typically not radioactive. Chemotherapy drugs are cytotoxic and require different safety measures, such as PPE.

Choice B rationale

While protecting patients during radiation therapy with a lead apron is necessary, it is not applicable for chemotherapy infusions. Chemotherapy involves the administration of cytotoxic drugs, not ionizing radiation, so protective measures focus on preventing exposure to these chemicals rather than shielding from radiation.

Choice C rationale

The nurse must wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and a gown, when handling chemotherapy to prevent exposure to these toxic drugs. PPE is crucial to protect healthcare workers from accidental spills, splashes, and skin contact with the chemotherapy agents, which can be harmful.

Choice D rationale

Disposal of chemotherapy waste should follow specific guidelines to prevent contamination and exposure. Sharps containers are for sharp objects like needles and blades, not for all chemotherapy waste. Chemotherapy waste should be disposed of in designated containers that comply with hazardous waste regulations to ensure safe handling and disposal.

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale

Monitoring for flu-like symptoms during immunotherapy infusions is crucial because these medications can cause cytokine release syndrome. Symptoms like fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle aches are common side effects of immunotherapy and require close monitoring to manage and mitigate adverse reactions.

Choice B rationale

Immunotherapy generally does not cause hair loss, unlike traditional chemotherapy. Hair loss occurs because chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicle cells. Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's immune response to cancer cells without targeting hair follicles.

Choice C rationale

Immunotherapy leverages the patient's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. It enhances the body's natural defenses by boosting immune system activity or by counteracting signals produced by cancer cells that suppress immune responses.

Choice D rationale

Immunotherapy does not prevent hospital-acquired infections. While it strengthens the immune system against cancer, it does not provide general protection against pathogens causing nosocomial infections. Patients undergoing immunotherapy should still follow standard precautions to avoid infections.