The nurse manager is orienting a new nurse to the oncology unit.
What will the nurse manager teach about best practices for safe handling and administration of chemotherapy?

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.

Choice A rationale

Pain from mucositis and oral tissue injury is a significant concern for patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, it is not typically life-threatening and can be managed with appropriate pain relief measures and oral care.

Choice B rationale

Weakness and fatigue with activity are common side effects of chemotherapy and the disease process itself. While these symptoms impact the patient's quality of life, they do not usually require urgent intervention.

Choice C rationale

Blood pressure of 90/64 mmHg, pulse of 102 beats per minute, and oral temperature of 38.5 degrees Celsius suggest possible sepsis or severe infection. These vital signs indicate an urgent need for intervention to prevent further deterioration and potentially life-threatening complications.

Choice D rationale

Scattered ecchymosis and petechiae are signs of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), which is a common complication of leukemia and its treatment. While important to monitor and manage, these findings are not typically as urgent as signs of sepsis or severe infection.