A 58-year-old man is going to have chemotherapy for lung cancer. He asks the nurse how the chemotherapeutic drugs will work.The most accurate explanation the nurse can give is which of the following?
"The molecular structure of the DNA is altered."
"Cancer cells are susceptible to drug toxins."
"Chemotherapy encourages cancer cells to divide."
"Chemotherapy affects all rapidly dividing cells."
The Correct Answer is D
Chemotherapy is a treatment modality used to target and destroy rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. It works by interfering with the cell division process, which is a characteristic of cancer cells. However, it is important to note that chemotherapy drugs can also affect normal, healthy cells in the body that undergo rapid division, such as cells in the bone marrow, hair follicles, and gastrointestinal lining. This is why chemotherapy can be associated with side effects like bone marrow suppression, hair loss, and gastrointestinal disturbances. While the molecular structure of DNA can be altered by certain chemotherapeutic drugs, this explanation is not comprehensive enough to encompass the overall mechanism of action of chemotherapy.
The statement that "cancer cells are susceptible to drug toxins" is partially true, as cancer cells are generally more vulnerable to the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy drugs compared to normal cells.
Chemotherapy aims to disrupt the division and growth of cancer cells rather than promoting their division.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of medications commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. They work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are substances in the body that play a role in pain and inflammation. Celecoxib specifically belongs to the subclass of NSAIDs known as selective COX-2 inhibitors, which target the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). By selectively inhibiting COX-2, celecoxib helps to reduce inflammation and pain while potentially minimizing the gastrointestinal side effects associated with traditional non-selective NSAIDs.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, are known to promote diuresis (increased urine output) and can cause electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium (hypokalemia). The patient's statement about eating a diet rich in potassium-containing foods like potatoes, bananas, avocadoes, strawberries, and spinach is incorrect in this context. These foods are indeed good sources of potassium, but when taking loop diuretics, it is necessary to monitor and potentially restrict potassium intake to prevent excessive potassium levels.
"I will weigh myself daily and report to my physician if I gain more than 3 lbs in 1 day." This statement reflects the patient's understanding of the need to monitor their weight daily as a means of assessing fluid balance. Rapid weight gain may indicate fluid retention, which should be reported to the physician.
"This medication can cause dehydration, so I will stay hydrated by consuming at least 2 L or more of fluid per day." This statement demonstrates awareness of the potential for dehydration when taking loop diuretics and the importance of staying adequately hydrated by consuming an appropriate amount of fluids.
"I will change position slowly because I can become dizzy easily while taking this medication." This statement reflects the understanding that loop diuretics can cause orthostatic hypotension,
leading to dizziness upon sudden changes in position. Taking precautions and changing position slowly can help prevent falls and related injuries.
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