The nurse on the oncology unit is caring for a patient receiving chemotherapy for treatment of leukemia.
Which patient finding is the nurse's priority for implementing interventions?
Pain 6/10 from mucositis and oral tissue injury.
Weakness and fatigue with activity.
Blood pressure 90/64 mmHg, pulse 102 beats per minute, oral temperature 38.5 degrees C.
Scattered ecchymosis and petechiae noted on arms.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 30-60 minutes before breakfast, to ensure proper absorption. Taking it with food can interfere with its effectiveness.
Choice B rationale
Monitoring for chest pain or symptoms of angina is crucial as levothyroxine can increase the heart rate and potentially exacerbate pre-existing heart conditions, especially in elderly patients.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring prothrombin time is important for patients taking warfarin because levothyroxine can enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Stopping levothyroxine abruptly can cause severe hypothyroid symptoms, so it should not be discontinued without consulting a healthcare provider.
Choice E rationale
Hypothyroidism patients are often more sensitive to sedatives, so reducing the dose of any sedative agents can prevent excessive sedation and other adverse effects. .
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Regular insulin 10 units subcutaneous is used to lower blood glucose levels in hyperkalemia. While insulin can help shift potassium into cells, it is not indicated for hypercalcemia or hyperparathyroidism. Regular insulin would not address the elevated calcium levels in this patient.
Choice B rationale
Chlorothiazide 750 mg intravenous is a diuretic that can increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, potentially worsening hypercalcemia. It is contraindicated in hyperparathyroidism because it can exacerbate the high calcium levels and associated symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Calcitonin 300 international units subcutaneous is the correct choice for this patient. Calcitonin inhibits osteoclast activity, reducing bone resorption and lowering serum calcium levels. It provides rapid but short-term control of hypercalcemia, which is crucial for managing acute symptoms of hyperparathyroidism.
Choice D rationale
Calcitriol 0.75 mcg orally is an active form of vitamin D that increases calcium absorption in the gut. It is used to manage hypocalcemia, not hypercalcemia. Administering calcitriol would further elevate the already high calcium levels, worsening the patient's condition.
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