Systems of Care 3 Cancer Med-Surg Practice Questions

NUR 4739

1. The nurse is caring for a patient receiving an initial dose of chemotherapy to treat a rapidly growing metastatic colon cancer. The nurse is aware that this patient is at risk for tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) and will monitor the patient closely for which of the following abnormalities associated with this oncologic emergency? A. B. C. D. Hypokalemia Hypocalcemia Hypouricemia Hypophosphatemia

B: TLS is a metabolic complication characterized by rapid release of intracellular components in response to chemotherapy. This can rapidly lead to acute renal failure. The hallmark signs of TLS are hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyperkalemia, and hypocalcemia. 2. The nurse is caring for a patient suffering from anorexia secondary to chemotherapy. Which of the following strategies would be most appropriate for the nurse to use to increase the patients nutritional intake? A. B. C. D. Increase intake of liquids at mealtime to stimulate the appetite. Serve three large meals per day plus snacks between each meal. Avoid the use of liquid protein supplements to encourage eating at mealtime. Add items such as skim milk powder, cheese, honey, or peanut butter to selected foods. D: The nurse can increase the nutritional density of foods by adding items high in protein and/or calories (such as peanut butter, skim milk powder, cheese, honey, or brown sugar) to foods the patient will eat. 3. Which of the following items would be most beneficial when providing oral care to a patient with metastatic cancer who is at risk for oral tissue injury secondary to chemotherapy? A. Firm-bristle toothbrush

Systems of Care 3
B. C. D. Hydrogen peroxide rinse Alcohol-based mouthwash 1 tsp salt in 1 L water mouth rinse

NUR 4739

D: A salt-water mouth rinse will not cause further irritation to oral tissue that is fragile because of mucositis, which is a side effect of chemotherapy. 4. Which of the following nursing diagnoses is most appropriate for a patient experiencing myelosuppression secondary to chemotherapy for cancer treatment? A. B. C. D. Incorrect Acute pain Hypothermia Powerlessness Risk for infection

D: Myelosuppression is accompanied by a high risk of infection and sepsis. Hypothermia, powerlessness, and acute pain are also possible nursing diagnoses for patients undergoing chemotherapy, but the threat of infection is paramount. 5. Previous administrations of chemotherapy agents to a cancer patient have resulted in diarrhea. Which of the following dietary modifications should the nurse recommend? A. B. C. D. A bland, low-fiber diet Incorrect A high-protein, high-calorie diet A diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables A diet emphasizing whole and organic foods

A: Patients experiencing diarrhea secondary to chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy often benefit from a diet low in seasonings and roughage. Fresh fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and should be minimized during treatment. Whole and organic foods do not prevent diarrhea. 6. A 33-year-old patient has recently been diagnosed with stage II cervical cancer. The nurse would understand that the patients cancer A. Is in situ.

Systems of Care 3
B. C. D. Has metastasized. Has spread locally. Has spread extensively.

NUR 4739

C: Stage II cancer is associated with local spread. Stage 0 denotes cancer in situ; stage III denotes extensive regional spread, and stage V denotes metastasis.