Which three nursing interventions can be used to prevent the spread of infection?

Choice A reason:

Offering peppermint aromatherapy during and after chemotherapy can be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Aromatherapy with peppermint oil has been shown to reduce nausea and improve comfort in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The scent of peppermint can have a calming effect on the gastrointestinal system, helping to alleviate nausea. This intervention is easy to implement and can be used alongside other treatments to enhance patient comfort.

Choice B reason:

Administering antiemetics before chemotherapy is a standard practice for preventing CINV. Antiemetics, such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists (e.g., ondansetron), NK1 receptor antagonists (e.g., aprepitant), and corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone), are commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. These medications are most effective when given prophylactically, before the onset of symptoms. Administering antiemetics before chemotherapy helps to block the pathways that trigger nausea and vomiting, providing better control over these symptoms.

Choice C reason:

Keeping Ms. Anderson NPO (nothing by mouth) for the duration of the chemotherapy is not recommended for managing CINV. Keeping patients NPO can lead to dehydration and malnutrition, which can worsen their overall condition. Instead, patients should be encouraged to eat small, frequent meals and stay hydrated to maintain their strength and well-being. Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for supporting the body’s ability to tolerate chemotherapy and recover from its side effects.

Choice D reason:

Encouraging the patient to eat and drink when not nauseated is an important strategy for managing CINV. Eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated can help maintain energy levels and prevent dehydration. Patients should be advised to eat bland, easy-to-digest foods and avoid foods that are greasy, spicy, or have strong odors, as these can exacerbate nausea. Encouraging patients to eat and drink when they feel well can help them maintain their nutritional status and improve their overall tolerance to chemotherapy.

Choice E reason:

Offering small sips of ginger ale can help manage nausea. Ginger has natural antiemetic properties and can be effective in reducing nausea and vomiting. Ginger ale, ginger tea, or ginger candies can be soothing and help settle the stomach. This simple intervention can be easily incorporated into the patient’s routine and can provide relief from mild to moderate nausea.

Choice F reason:

Encouraging Ms. Anderson to eat a high-protein meal prior to the chemotherapy infusion is not typically recommended for managing CINV. High-protein meals can be harder to digest and may increase the risk of nausea. Instead, patients should be advised to eat light, bland meals before chemotherapy to minimize the risk of nausea and vomiting. Light meals are easier on the stomach and less likely to trigger gastrointestinal discomfort.

Choice A: True

Neutropenia, characterized by a low count of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), significantly increases a patient’s risk for life-threatening infections and sepsis. Neutrophils play a crucial role in the immune system by fighting off infections. When their levels are low, the body becomes more susceptible to infections, which can quickly escalate to sepsis if not promptly treated. Neutropenic sepsis is a severe and potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy are particularly at risk due to their compromised immune systems.

Choice B: False

The statement that neutropenia does not increase the risk for life-threatening infection and sepsis is incorrect. Neutropenia is well-documented as a major risk factor for severe infections and sepsis. Without adequate neutrophils, the body’s ability to combat pathogens is severely impaired, leading to a higher likelihood of infections that can become systemic and life-threatening. Therefore, it is critical to monitor and manage neutropenic patients closely to prevent and treat infections promptly.

A 49-year-old female patient receives 3% NaCl solution for the correction of hyponatremia. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to monitor while the patient is receiving this infusion?