Cancer Iggy NCLEX

When caring for the client receiving cancer chemotherapy, which signs or symptoms related to thrombocytopenia should the nurse report to the health care provider? (Select all that apply.) A. Bruises B. Fever C. Petechiae D. Epistaxis E. Pallor

A, C, D Bruising, petechiae, and epistaxis (nosebleeds) are symptoms of a low platelet count. Fever is a sign of infection secondary to neutropenia. Pallor is a sign of anemia.

Which potential side effects does the nurse include in the teaching plan for a client undergoing radiation therapy for laryngeal cancer? (Select all that apply.) A. Fatigue B. Changes in color of hair C. Change in taste D. Changes in skin of the neck E. Difficulty swallowing

A, C, D, E Radiation therapy to any site produces fatigue in most clients, and may cause clients to report changes in taste. Radiation side effects are site-specific; the larynx is in the neck, so changes in the skin of the neck may occur. Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) may occur from radiation to the throat area. Chemotherapy, which causes alopecia, may cause changes in the color or texture of hair; this does not normally occur with radiation therapy.

The oncology nurse is caring for a group of clients receiving chemotherapy. The client with which sign/symptom is displaying bone marrow suppression? A. Hemoglobin of 7.4 and hematocrit of 21.8 B. Potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L and diarrhea C. 250,000 platelets/mm3 D. 5000 white blood cells/mm3

A. Hemoglobin of 7.4 and hematocrit of 21.8 Bone marrow suppression causes anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia; the client with a hemoglobin of 7.4 and hematocrit of 21.8 has anemia demonstrated by low hemoglobin and hematocrit. The client with diarrhea and a potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L has hypokalemia and electrolyte imbalance. The client with 250,000 platelets/mm3 and the client with 5000 white blood cells/mm3 demonstrate normal values.

The nurse explains to a client that which risk factor of those listed most likely contributed to the client's primary liver carcinoma? A. Infection with hepatitis B virus B. Consuming a diet high in animal fat C. Exposure to radon D. Familial polyposis

A. Infection with hepatitis B virus Hepatitis B and C are risk factors for primary liver cancer. Alcohol abuse is also a risk factor for the development of liver cancer. Consuming a diet high in animal fat may predispose a person to colon or breast cancer. Exposure to radon is a risk factor for lung cancer. Familial polyposis is a risk factor for colorectal cancer.

The nurse is caring for a client receiving chemotherapy who reports anorexia. Which measure does the nurse use to best monitor for cachexia? A. Monitor weight B. Trend red blood cells and hemoglobin and hematocrit C. Monitor platelets D. Observe for motor deficits

A. Monitor weight Cachexia results in extreme body wasting and malnutrition; severe weight loss is expected. Anemia and bleeding tendencies result from bone marrow suppression secondary to invasion of bone marrow by a cancer or a side effect of chemotherapy. Motor deficits result from spinal cord compression.

When the nurse is counseling a 60-year-old African-American male client with all of these risk factors for lung cancer, teaching should focus most on which risk factor? A. Tobacco use B. Ethnicity C. Gender D. Increased age

A. Tobacco use Although all of these are risk factors for lung cancer, the client's tobacco use is the only factor that he can change. Ethnicity, gender, and increasing age are associated with lung cancer, but they are not modifiable risks.

The nurse is assessing a client with lung cancer. Which symptom does the nurse anticipate finding? A. Easy bruising B. Dyspnea C. Night sweats D. Chest wound

B. Dyspnea Dyspnea is a sign of lung cancer, as are cough, hoarseness, shortness of breath, bloody sputum, arm or chest pain, and dysphagia. Easy bruising is a nonspecific finding. Night sweats is a symptom of the lymphomas. A chest wound is not specific to lung cancer.

The client receiving brachytherapy with implanted radioactive "seeds" for prostate cancer asks the nurse when these seeds will be removed. What is the nurse's best response? A. "The half-life of radiation in these seeds is so short that it is not necessary to remove them." B. "They will only be removed if their presence is painful or leads to an enlarged prostate gland." C. "When we know for certain that all cancerous cells have been killed, the seeds will be removed." D. "The seeds are small enough to be absorbed by your body and excreted in the urine or stool."

Answer: A Rationale: The seeds are small and painless. The half-life of the radiation source is less than 2 weeks. Thus, it is not necessary for the seeds to be removed because they pose no health hazard to the client or anyone else. They are neither absorbed nor excreted by the body.

The nurse reviews the chart of a client admitted with a diagnosis of glioblastoma with a T1NXM0 classification. Which explanation does the nurse offer when the client asks what the terminology means? A. "Two lymph nodes are involved in this tumor of the glial cells, and another tumor is present." B. "The brain tumor measures about 1 to 2 cm and shows no regional lymph nodes and no distant metastasis." C. "This type of tumor in the brain is small with some lymph node involvement; another tumor is present somewhere else in your body." D. "Glioma means this tumor is benign, so I will have to ask your health care provider the reason for the chemotherapy and radiation."

B. "The brain tumor measures about 1 to 2 cm and shows no regional lymph nodes and no distant metastasis." T1 means that the tumor is increasing in size to about 2 cm, and that no regional lymph nodes are present in the brain. M0 means that no distant metastasis has occurred. NX means that no regional lymph nodes can be assessed. A glioma is a benign tumor of the brain, but the client is diagnosed with a glioblastoma, which means a malignant tumor of the glial cells of the brain.

The nurse suspects metastasis from left breast cancer to the thoracic spine when the client has which symptom? A. Vomiting B. Back pain C. Frequent urination D. Cyanosis of the toes

B. Back pain Typical sites of breast cancer metastasis include bone (manifested by back pain), lung, liver, and brain. Signs of metastasis to the spine may include numbness, pain, paresthesias and tingling, and loss of bowel and bladder control, but not vomiting. Although frequent urination may be a sign of bladder cancer, incontinence is more indicative of spinal metastasis. Cyanosis of the toes indicates decreased tissue perfusion, often related to atherosclerotic disease.

Which manifestation of an oncologic emergency requires the nurse to contact the health care provider immediately? A. New onset of fatigue B. Edema of arms and hands C. Dry cough D. Weight gain

B. Edema of arms and hands Edema of the arms and hands indicates worsening compression of the superior vena cava consistent with superior vena cava syndrome. The compression must be relieved immediately, often with radiation therapy, because death can result without timely intervention. New onset of fatigue may likely be an early manifestation of hypercalcemia, which usually develops slowly, but because it is an early manifestation, this is not the priority. Dry cough is not a manifestation that is specific to an oncologic emergency; however, it may be a side effect of chemotherapy. Weight gain could be an early sign of syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone; although this should be addressed, it is an early sign so it is not the priority.

Which medication does the nurse plan to administer to a client before chemotherapy to decrease the incidence of nausea and vomiting? A. Morphine B. Ondansetron (Zofran) C. Naloxone (Narcan) D. Diazepam (Valium)

B. Ondansetron (Zofran) Ondansetron is a 5-HT3 receptor blocker that blocks serotonin to prevent nausea and vomiting. Morphine is a narcotic analgesic or opiate; it may cause nausea. Naloxone is a narcotic antagonist used for opiate overdose. Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, is an antianxiety medication only; lorazepam, another benzodiazepine, may be used for nausea.

Which client problem does the nurse set as the priority for the client experiencing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy? A. Potential for lack of understanding related to side effects of chemotherapy B. Potential for injury related to sensory and motor deficits C. Potential for ineffective coping strategies related to loss of motor control D. Altered sexual function related to erectile dysfunction

B. Potential for injury related to sensory and motor deficits The highest priority is safety. Although knowing the side effects of chemotherapy may be helpful, the priority is the client's safety because of the lack of sensation or innervation to the extremities. The nurse should address the client's coping only after providing for safety. Erectile dysfunction may be a manifestation of peripheral neuropathy, but the priority is still the client's safety.

A 52-year-old client relates to the nurse that she has never had a mammogram because she is terrified that she will have cancer. Which response by the nurse is therapeutic? A. "Don't worry, most lumps are discovered by women during breast self-examination." B. "Does anyone in your family have breast cancer?" C. "Finding a cancer in the early stages increases the chance for cure." D. "Have you noticed a lump or thickening in your breast?"

C. "Finding a cancer in the early stages increases the chance for cure." Providing truthful information addresses the client's concerns. Mammography can detect lumps smaller than those discovered by palpation. Asking about family history or symptoms is not therapeutic because it does not address the client's fear of cancer.

A newly graduated RN has just finished a 6-week orientation to the oncology unit. Which client is most appropriate to assign to the new graduate? A. A 30-year-old with acute lymphocytic leukemia who will receive combination chemotherapy today B. A 40-year-old with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting who has had no urine output for 16 hours C. A 45-year-old with pancytopenia who will require IV administration of erythropoietin (Procrit) D. A 72-year-old with tumor lysis syndrome who is receiving normal saline IV at a rate of 250 mL/hr

C. A 45-year-old with pancytopenia who will require IV administration of erythropoietin (Procrit) A new nurse after a 6-week oncology orientation possesses the skills to care for clients with pancytopenia and with administration of medications to correct anemia. The clients with acute lymphocytic leukemia and chemotherapy-induced nausea are complex clients requiring a nurse certified in chemotherapy administration. The client with tumor lysis syndrome has complicated needs for assessment and care and should be cared for by an RN with more oncology experience.

When caring for a client receiving chemotherapy, the nurse plans care during the nadir of bone marrow activity to prevent which complication? A. Drug toxicity B. Polycythemia C. Infection D. Dose-limiting side effects

C. Infection The lowest point of bone marrow function is referred to as the nadir; risk for infection is highest during this phase. Drug toxicity can develop when drug levels exceed peak concentrations. Polycythemia refers to an increase in the number of red blood cells; typically chemotherapy causes reduction of red blood cells or anemia. Dose limiting side effects occur when the dose or frequency of chemotherapy need to be altered or held, such as in the case of severe neutropenia or neurologic dysfunction .

When caring for the client with chemotherapy-induced mucositis, which intervention will be most helpful? A. Administering a biological response modifier B. Encouraging oral care with commercial mouthwash C. Providing oral care with a disposable mouth swab D. Maintaining NPO until the lesions have resolved

C. Providing oral care with a disposable mouth swab The client with mucositis would benefit most from oral care; mouth swabs are soft and disposable and therefore clean and appropriate to provide oral care. Biological response modifiers are used to stimulate bone marrow production of immune system cells; mucositis or sores in the mouth will not respond to these medications. Commercial mouthwashes should be avoided because they may contain alcohol or other drying agents that may further irritate the mucosa. Keeping the client NPO is not necessary because nutrition is important during cancer treatment; a local anesthetic may be prescribed for comfort.

The nurse corrects the nursing student when caring for a client with neutropenia secondary to chemotherapy in which circumstance? A. The student scrubs the hub of IV tubing before administering an antibiotic. B. The nurse overhears the student explaining to the client the importance of handwashing. C. The student teaches the client that symptoms of neutropenia include fatigue and weakness. D. The nurse observes the student providing oral hygiene and perineal care.

C. The student teaches the client that symptoms of neutropenia include fatigue and weakness. Symptoms of neutropenia include low neutrophil count, fever, and signs and symptoms of infection; the student should be corrected. Asepsis with IV lines is an appropriate action. Handwashing is an essential component of client care, especially when the client is at risk for neutropenia. Hygiene and perineal care help prevent infection and sepsis.

The nurse teaches a client that intraperitoneal chemotherapy will be delivered to which part of the body? A. Veins of the legs B. Lung C. Heart D. Abdominal cavity

D. Abdominal cavity Intraperitoneal chemotherapy is placed in the peritoneal cavity or the abdominal cavity. Intravenous drugs are delivered through veins. Chemotherapy delivered into the lungs is typically placed in the pleural space (intrapleural). Chemotherapy is not typically delivered into the heart.

Which type of cancer has been associated with Down syndrome? A. Breast cancer B. Colorectal cancer C. Malignant melanoma D. Leukemia

D. Leukemia Leukemia is associated with Down syndrome and Turner syndrome. Breast cancer is often found clustered in families, not in association with Down syndrome. Colorectal cancer is associated with familial polyposis. Malignant melanoma is associated with familial clustering and sun exposure.

A client has a glioblastoma. The nurse begins to plan care for this client with which type of cancer? A. Liver B. Smooth muscle C. Fatty tissue D. Brain

D. Brain The prefix "glio-" is used when cancers of the brain are named. The prefix "hepato-" is included when cancers of the liver are named. The prefix "leiomyo-" is included when cancers of smooth muscle are named. The prefix "lipo-" is included when cancers of fat or adipose tissue are named.

Which statement about the process of malignant transformation is correct? A. Mutation of genes is an irreversible event that always leads to cancer development in the initiation phase. B. Insulin and estrogen enhance the division of an initiated cell during the promotion phase. C. Tumors form when carcinogens invade the gene structure of the cell in the latency phase. D. Nutrition of cancer cells is provided by tumor angiogenesis factor (TAF) in the promotion stage.

D. Nutrition of cancer cells is provided by tumor angiogenesis factor (TAF) in the promotion stage. The promotion phase consists of progression when the blood supply changes from diffusion to TAF. Insulin and estrogen increase cell division. If cell division is halted, mutation of genes does not lead to cancer development in the initiation phase. In the initiation phase, carcinogens invade the DNA of the nucleus of a single cell. A 1-cm tumor consists of 1 billion cells. The latency phase occurs between initiation and tumor formation.

The home health nurse is caring for a client who has a history of a kidney transplant and takes cyclosporine (Sandimmune) and prednisone (Deltasone) to prevent rejection. Which assessment finding is most important to communicate to the transplant team? A. Temperature of 96.6° F B. Reports of joint pain C. Pink and dry oral mucosa D. Palpable lump in the client's axilla

D. Palpable lump in the client's axilla Clients taking immunosuppressive drugs to prevent rejection are at increased risk for the development of cancer; any lump should be reported to the physician. Fever should be reported to the physician, but this client's temperature is normal. It is not necessary to report joint pain to the transplant team; it is not a sign of rejection and is not a complication of transplant. A pink and dry oral mucosa may be a sign of dehydration, but it is not necessary to report this to the transplant team.

A client has a diagnosis of lung cancer. To which areas does the nurse anticipate that this client's tumor may metastasize? (Select all that apply.) A. Brain B. Bone C. Lymph nodes D. Kidneys E. Liver

A, B, C, E Typical sites of metastasis of lung cancer include the brain, bone, liver, lymph nodes, and pancreas. Kidneys are not a typical site of lung cancer metastasis.

The nurse includes which factors in teaching regarding the typical warning signs of cancer? (Select all that apply.) A. Persistent constipation B. Scab present for 6 months C. Curdlike vaginal discharge D. Axillary swelling E. Headache

A, B, D Change in bowel habits, a sore that does not heal, and a lump or thickening in the breast or elsewhere are all potential warning signs of cancer. Curdlike vaginal discharge represents a yeast infection. Headache is not a warning sign, but may be present with multiple problems.

When monitoring a client with suspected syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), the nurse reviews the client's medical record, which contains the following information. The nurse notifies the health care provider for which signs and symptoms consistent with this syndrome? (Select all that apply.) Neuro: Episodes of confusion... Cardiac: Pulse 88 and regular... Musculoskeletal: Weakness, tremor Na: 115, K: 4.2, Creatinine: 0.8; ondansetron (Zofran); cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) A. Hyponatremia B. Mental status changes C. Azotemia D. Bradycardia E. Weakness

A, B, E Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is secreted or produced ectopically, resulting in water retention and sodium dilution. Dilutional hyponatremia results from ADH secretion, causing confusion and changes in mental status. Weakness results from hyponatremia. Azotemia refers to buildup of nitrogenous waste products in the blood, typically from renal damage. Bradycardia is not part of the constellation of symptoms related to SIADH; tachycardia may result from fluid volume excess.

The nurse has received in report that a client receiving chemotherapy has severe neutropenia. Which interventions does the nurse plan to implement? (Select all that apply.) A. Assess for fever. B. Observe for bleeding. C. Administer pegfilgrastim (Neulasta) - a biologic response modifier D. Do not permit fresh flowers or plants in the room. E. Do not allow the client's 16-year-old son to visit. F. Teach the client to omit raw fruits and vegetables from the diet.

A, C, D, F Any temperature elevation in a client with neutropenia is considered a sign of infection and should be reported immediately to the health care provider. Administration of biological response modifiers, such as filgrastim (Neupogen) and pegfilgrastim (Neulasta), is indicated in neutropenia to prevent infection and sepsis. Flowers and plants may harbor organisms such as fungi or viruses and are to be avoided for the immune-suppressed client. All fruits and vegetables should be cooked well; raw fruits and vegetables may harbor organisms. Thrombocytopenia, or low platelet levels, causes bleeding, not low neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). The client is at risk for infection, not the visitors, if they are well; however, very small children, who may get frequent colds and viral infections, may pose a risk.

The nurse is teaching a 47-year-old woman about recommended screening practices for breast cancer. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the nurse's instructions? A. "My mother and grandmother had breast cancer, so I am at risk." B. "I get a mammogram every 2 years since I turned 30." C. "A clinical breast examination is performed every month since I turned 40." D. "A computed tomography (CT) scan will be done every year after I turn 50."

A. "My mother and grandmother had breast cancer, so I am at risk." A strong family history of breast cancer indicates a risk for breast cancer. Annual rather than biannual screening may be indicated for a strong family history. An annual mammogram is performed after age 40 or in younger clients with a strong family history. The client may perform a self-breast examination monthly; a clinical examination by a health care provider is indicated annually. Annual CT breast scans after age 50 are not a current recommendation.

Which information must the organ transplant nurse emphasize before a client is discharged? A. "Taking immunosuppressant medications increases your risk for cancer and the need for screenings." B. "You are at increased risk for cancer when you reach 60 years of age." C. "Immunosuppressant medications will decrease your risk for developing cancers." D. "After 6 months, you may stop immunosuppressant medications, and your risk for cancer will be the same as that of the general population."

A. "Taking immunosuppressant medications increases your risk for cancer and the need for screenings." Use of immunosuppressant medications to prevent organ rejection increases the risk for cancer. Advanced age is a risk factor for all people, not just for organ transplant recipients. Immunosuppressant medications must be taken for the life of the organ; the risk for developing cancer remains.

The RN working on an oncology unit has just received report on these clients. Which client should be assessed first? A. Client with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia who has just been admitted with an elevated temperature B. Client with lymphoma who will need administration of an antiemetic before receiving chemotherapy C. Client with metastatic breast cancer who is scheduled for external beam radiation in 1 hour D. Client with xerostomia associated with laryngeal cancer who needs oral care before breakfast

A. Client with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia who has just been admitted with an elevated temperature Neutropenia poses high risk for life-threatening sepsis and septic shock, which develop and progress rapidly in immune-suppressed people; the nurse should see the client with chemotherapy-induced neutropenia first. The client with lymphoma and the client with metastatic breast cancer are not in distress and can be assessed later. The client with dry mouth (xerostomia) can be assessed later, or the nurse can delegate mouth care to unlicensed assistive personnel.

The nurse manager in a long-term care facility is developing a plan for primary and secondary prevention of colorectal cancer. Which tasks associated with the screening plan will be delegated to nursing assistants within the facility? A. Testing of stool specimens for occult blood B. Teaching about the importance of dietary fiber C. Referring clients for colonoscopy procedures D. Giving vitamin and mineral supplements

A. Testing of stool specimens for occult blood Testing of stool specimens for occult blood is done according to a standardized protocol and can be delegated to nursing assistants. Client education is within the scope of practice of the RN, not of the LPN or nursing assistant. Referral for further care is best performed by the RN. Administration of medications is beyond the nursing assistant's scope of practice and should be done by licensed nursing personnel.

Which precaution is most important for the nurse to teach the client who has chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy? A. Avoid taking aspirin or any aspirin-containing products. B. Use a bath thermometer to check bath water temperature. C. Do not use mouthwashes that contain alcohol or glycerin. D. Bathe daily using an antimicrobial soap or gel.

Answer: B Rationale: Peripheral neuropathy reduces the ability to discriminate temperature sensation. It is very easy for a person with neuropathy to be unaware of water temperature and to become injured as a result of water for bathing or showering being too hot. Aspirin, although important to avoid when platelets are low, is not contraindicated with peripheral neuropathy. Alcohol or glycerin mouthwashes are contraindicated for mucositis, not peripheral neuropathy. Bathing with an antimicrobial soap helps prevent infection but does not prevent injury.

The client receiving high-dose chemotherapy who has neutropenia asks the nurse whether he and his wife can have sexual intercourse while he is receiving chemotherapy. What is the nurse's best response? A. "No, this activity will increase the side effects of the chemotherapy." B. "No, the danger of impregnating your wife is too great." C. "Yes, as long as you feel like it and use a condom." D. "Yes, if you do not have an infection."

Answer: C Rationale: Many people do not feel well enough to have sexual intercourse during the months they are taking chemotherapy. This activity is fine as long as the client takes precautions to limit chemotherapy drug exposure to his partner and protects himself from infection and trauma. Wearing a condom reduces chemotherapy drug exposure to his partner (as a result of any drugs entering the seminal fluid or are in the urethra from presence in the urine) and reduces his risk for developing an ascending urinary tract infection.

Which pathologic description of a client's tumor does the nurse interpret as being the "most malignant" or "high grade" cancer? A. Poorly differentiated; mitotic index = 20%, euploid B. Moderately differentiated; mitotic index = 50%, euploid C. Undifferentiated; mitotic index = 50%, aneuploid D. Highly differentiated; mitotic index = 10%, aneuploid

Answer: C Rationale: Tumors that closely resemble normal cells are "less malignant," and those that have few normal cell features are "more malignant." Thus, those that are euploid are less malignant and those that are aneuploid, with abnormal numbers or structures of chromosomes, are more malignant. Less malignant cells are highly differentiated, and more malignant cells are poorly or undifferentiated. Cells that divide faster (have a higher mitotic index) are more malignant.

Which change in health status indicates to the nurse that the client's superior vena cava syndrome is worsening? A. The client's systolic blood pressure is rising, and the diastolic pressure is decreasing. B. The client's severe nausea and vomiting no longer responds to antiemetics. C. The client has experienced four nose bleeds in the past 2 days. D. Pedal edema is now present.

Answer: C Rationale: With superior vena cava syndrome, blood flow through the vena cava is compromised as a result of tumor growth. As blood backs up in the venous system drained by the superior vena cave, pressure in the veins increases and nose bleeds (epistaxis) occur easily and more frequently. The increased venous pressure would not increase systolic pressure. Response to antiemetics is not affected by superior vena cava syndrome. Pedal edema could occur in response to a blockage in the inferior vena cava but not the superior vena cava.

A 65-year-old client tells the nurse she does not have mammograms because there is no history of breast cancer in her family. What is the nurse's best response? A. "You are correct. Breast cancer is an inherited type of malignancy and your family history indicates a low risk for you." B. "Performing breast self-examination monthly at home is sufficient screening for someone with your family history." C. "Because your breasts are no longer as dense as they were when you were younger, your risk for breast cancer is now decreased." D. "Breast cancer can be found more frequently in families; however, the risk for general, nonfamilial breast cancer increases with age."

Answer: D Rationale: Only a small percentage of cancers, including breast cancers, are hereditary or familial. The far more critically important risk factor for breast cancer in women is advancing age. Although performance of monthly self-breast examination is good, for a woman of this age, it should be done in conjunction with a yearly mammogram.

The nurse is conducting a community health education class on diet and cancer risk reduction. What should be included in the discussion? (Select all that apply.) A. Limit sodium intake. B. Avoid beef and processed meats. C. Increase consumption of whole grains. D. Eat "colorful fruits and vegetables," including greens. E. Avoid gas-producing vegetables such as cabbage.

B, C, D Consuming bran and whole grains and avoiding red meat and processed foods such as lunchmeats can reduce cancer risk. Consuming foods high in vitamin A, including apricots, carrots, and leafy green and yellow vegetables, can also reduce cancer risk. Reducing sodium is helpful in the treatment of hypertension and heart and kidney failure; no evidence suggests that lowering of sodium intake decreases the incidence of cancer. Eating cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage may actually reduce cancer risk.

What are the common cancers related to tobacco use? (Select all that apply.) A. Cardiac cancer B. Lung cancer C. Cancer of the tongue D. Skin cancer E. Cancer of the larynx

B, C, E Organs exposed to the carcinogens in tobacco (lungs, tongue, larynx) are the most likely to develop cancer. Oral cancer is also a risk with "smokeless" tobacco. The heart does not contain cells that divide; therefore, cardiac cancer is unlikely. Skin cancer generally is related to repeated sun and other ultraviolet exposure, such as that found with tanning beds.

When caring for a client who has had a colostomy created during treatment for colon cancer, which nursing actions help support the client in accepting changes in appearance or function? (Select all that apply.) A. Explain to the client that the colostomy is only temporary. B. Encourage the client to participate in changing the ostomy. C. Obtain a psychiatric consultation. D. Offer to have a person who is coping with a colostomy visit. E. Encourage the client and family members to express their feelings and concerns.

B, D, E Encouraging the client to participate in changing the ostomy is an appropriate way for the client to become familiar with the ostomy and its care. A visit from a person who is successfully coping with an ostomy can demonstrate to the client that many aspects of life can be the same after surgery. Offering to listen to feelings and concerns is part of a therapeutic relationship and therapeutic communication. Ostomies may be temporary for bowel rest, such as after a perforation, but are typically permanent for cancer treatment. Obtaining a psychiatric consultation may need to be done for clients with persistent depression, but would not be done immediately.

The nurse is caring for a client who is receiving rituximab (Rituxan) for treatment of lymphoma. During the infusion, it is essential for the nurse to observe for which side effect? A. Alopecia B. Allergy C. Fever D. Chills

B. Allergy Allergy is the most common side effect of monoclonal antibody therapy (rituximab). Monoclonal antibody therapy does not cause alopecia. Although fever and chills are side effects of monoclonal antibody therapy, they would not take priority over an allergic response that could potentially involve the airway.

When caring for the client with hyperuricemia associated with tumor lysis syndrome (TLS), for which medication does the nurse anticipate an order? A. Recombinant erythropoietin (Procrit) B. Allopurinol (Zyloprim) C. Potassium chloride D. Radioactive iodine-131 (131I)

B. Allopurinol (Zyloprim) TLS results in hyperuricemia (elevation of uric acid in the blood), hyperkalemia, and other electrolyte imbalances; allopurinol decreases uric acid production and is indicated in TLS. Recombinant erythropoietin is used to increase red blood cell production and is not a treatment for hyperuricemia. Administering additional potassium is dangerous. Radioactive iodine-131 is indicated in the treatment of thyroid cancer, not TLS.

The nurse is caring for a client with end-stage ovarian cancer who needs clarification on the purpose of palliative surgery. Which outcome should the nurse teach the client is the goal of palliative surgery? A. Cure of the cancer B. Relief of symptoms or improved quality of life C. Allowing other therapies to be more effective D. Prolonging the client's survival time

B. Relief of symptoms or improved quality of life The focus of palliative surgery is to improve quality of life during the survival time. Curative surgery removes all cancer cells, visible and microscopic. Debulking is a procedure that removes some cancerous tissue, allowing other therapies to be more effective. Many therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and biotherapy, increase the client's chance of cure and survival, but palliation improves quality of life.

Which activity performed by the community health nurse best reflects primary prevention of cancer? A. Assisting women to obtain free mammograms B. Teaching a class on cancer prevention C. Encouraging long-term smokers to get a chest x-ray D. Encouraging sexually active women to get annual Papanicolaou (Pap) smears

B. Teaching a class on cancer prevention Primary prevention involves avoiding exposure to known causes of cancer; education assists clients with this strategy. Mammography is part of a secondary level of prevention, defined as screening for early detection. Chest x-ray is a method of detecting a cancer that is present—secondary prevention and early detection. A Pap smear is a means of detecting cervical cancer early—secondary prevention.

Which statement made by a client allows the nurse to recognize whether the client receiving brachytherapy for ovarian cancer understands the treatment plan? A. "I may lose my hair during this treatment." B. "I must be positioned in the same way during each treatment." C. "I will have a radioactive device in my body for a short time." D. "I will be placed in a semiprivate room for company."

C. "I will have a radioactive device in my body for a short time." Brachytherapy refers to short-term insertion of a radiation source. Side effects of radiation therapy are site-specific; this client is unlikely to experience hair loss from treating ovarian cancer with radiation. The client undergoing teletherapy (external beam radiation), not brachytherapy, must be positioned precisely in the same position each time. The client who is receiving brachytherapy must be in a private room.

A client who is scheduled to undergo radiation for prostate cancer is admitted to the hospital by the nurse. Which statement by the client is most important to communicate to the health care provider? A. "I am allergic to iodine." B. "My urinary stream is very weak." C. "My legs are numb and weak." D. "I am incontinent when I cough."

C. "My legs are numb and weak." Numbness and weakness should be reported to the physician because paralysis caused by spinal cord compression can occur. Prostate cancer may frequently metastasize to the bone, specifically the spine. Allergy to iodine should be reported when contrast media will be used, but dye is not used in radiation therapy. A weak urinary stream and incontinence are common clinical manifestations of prostate cancer. Incontinence associated with coughing is typical of stress incontinence and is not a complication of cancer.

Which finding alarms the nurse when caring for a client receiving chemotherapy who has a platelet count of 17,000/mm3? A. Increasing shortness of breath B. Diminished bilateral breath sounds C. Change in mental status D. Weight gain of 4 pounds in 1 day

C. Change in mental status A change in mental status could result from spontaneous bleeding; in this case, a cerebral hemorrhage may have developed. Increasing shortness of breath is typically related to anemia, not to thrombocytopenia. Diminished breath sounds may be related to many factors, including poor respiratory excursion, infection, and atelectasis, which is not related to thrombocytopenia. A large weight gain in a short period may be related to kidney or heart failure; bleeding is the major complication of thrombocytopenia.

Which instruction is most appropriate for the nurse to convey to the client with chemotherapy-induced neuropathy? A. Bathe in cold water. B. Wear cotton gloves when cooking. C. Consume a diet high in fiber. D. Make sure shoes are snug.

C. Consume a diet high in fiber. A high-fiber diet will assist with constipation due to neuropathy. The client should bathe in warm water, not hotter than 96° F. Cotton gloves may prevent harm from scratching; protective gloves should be worn for washing dishes and gardening. Wearing cotton gloves while cooking can increase the risk for burns. Shoes should allow sufficient length and width to prevent blisters. Shoes that are snug can increase the risk for blisters in a client with peripheral neuropathy.

The oncology nurse should use which intervention to prevent disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)? A. Monitoring platelets B. Administering packed red blood cells C. Using strict aseptic technique to prevent infection D. Administering low-dose heparin therapy for clients on bedrest

C. Using strict aseptic technique to prevent infection Sepsis is a major cause of DIC, especially in the oncology client. Monitoring platelets will help detect DIC, but will not prevent it. Red blood cells are used for anemia, not for bleeding/coagulation disorders. Heparin may be administered to clients with DIC who have developed clotting, but this has not been proven to prevent the disorder.

The nurse is teaching a client who is receiving an antiestrogen drug about the side effects she may encounter. Which side effects does the nurse include in the discussion? (Select all that apply.) A. Heavy menses B. Smooth facial skin C. Hyperkalemia D. Breast tenderness E. Weight loss F. Deep vein thrombosis

D, F Breast tenderness and shrinking breast tissue may occur with antiestrogen therapy. Venous thromboembolism may also occur. Irregular menses or no menstrual period is the typical side effect of antiestrogen therapy. Acne may also develop. Hypercalcemia, not hyperkalemia, is typical. Fluid retention with weight gain may also occur.

The nurse is giving a group presentation on cancer prevention and recognition. Which statement by an older adult client indicates understanding of the nurse's instructions? A. "Cigarette smoking always causes lung cancer." B. "Taking multivitamins will prevent me from developing cancer." C. "If I have only one shot of whiskey a day, I probably will not develop cancer." D. "I need to report the pain going down my legs to my health care provider."

D. "I need to report the pain going down my legs to my health care provider." Pain in the back of the legs could indicate prostate cancer in an older man. Cigarette smoking is implicated in causing lung cancer and other types of cancer, but it does not always cause cancer. Investigation is ongoing about the efficacy of vitamins A and C in cancer prevention. Limiting alcohol to one drink per day is only one preventive measure.

A 72-year-old client recovering from lung cancer surgery asks the nurse to explain how she developed cancer when she has never smoked. Which factor may explain the possible cause? A. A diagnosis of diabetes treated with insulin and diet B. An exercise regimen of jogging 3 miles four times a week C. A history of cardiac disease D. Advancing age

D. Advancing age Advancing age is the single most important risk factor for cancer. As a person ages, immune protection decreases. Diabetes is not known to cause lung cancer. Regular exercise is not a risk factor for lung cancer, nor does having cardiac disease predispose a person to lung cancer.

A client who is undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer reports problems with concentration and memory. Which nursing intervention is indicated at this time? A. Explain that this occurs in some clients and is usually permanent. B. Inform the client that a small glass of wine may help her relax. C. Protect the client from infection. D. Allow the client an opportunity to express her feelings.

D. Allow the client an opportunity to express her feelings. Although no specific intervention for this side effect is known, therapeutic communication and listening may be helpful to the client. Evidence regarding problems with concentration and memory loss with chemotherapy is not complete, but the current thinking is that this process is usually temporary. The client should be advised to avoid the use of alcohol and recreational drugs at this time because they also impair memory. Chemotherapeutic agents are implicated in central nervous system function in this scenario, not infection.

The nurse presents a cancer prevention program to teens. Which instruction will have the greatest impact in cancer prevention? A. Avoid asbestos. B. Wear sunscreen. C. Get the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine. D. Do not smoke cigarettes.

D. Do not smoke cigarettes. All of these actions are part of cancer prevention; however, tobacco is the single most important source of preventable carcinogenesis. Asbestos may be found in older homes and buildings. Most schools have been through an asbestos abatement program so should not pose a risk. It would be important to share with teens who may be involved in the construction industry during the summer to be aware of asbestos risks. Although asbestos may present a risk for lung cancer, it is not a likely exposure for teens. Lifetime exposure to the sun and the use of tanning beds will increase the risk for cancer, but not as much as tobacco use. The HPV vaccine will decrease the risk for cervical cancer, but will not have as much of an impact on cancer prevention as avoiding tobacco.

An outpatient client is receiving photodynamic therapy. Which environmental factor is a priority for the client to adjust for protection? A. Storing drugs in dark locations at room temperature B. Wearing soft clothing C. Wearing a hat and sunglasses when going outside D. Reducing all direct and indirect sources of light

D. Reducing all direct and indirect sources of light Lighting of all types must be kept to a minimum with clients receiving photodynamic therapy; it can lead to burns of the skin and damage to the eyes because these clients' eyes are sensitive to light. Any drug that the client is prescribed should be considered for its photosensitivity properties; drugs should be stored according to the recommendations, but this is not the primary concern for this client. Clothing must cover the skin to prevent burns from direct or indirect light; texture is not a concern for the client receiving this treatment. The client will be homebound for 1 to 3 months after the treatment and should not go outside.