A nurse on an oncology unit is preparing to administer doxorubicin to a client who has breast cancer. Prior to beginning the infusion, the nurse verifies the client's current cumulative lifetime dose of the medication. For which of the following reasons is this verification necessary?
Exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin might cause extravasation.
Exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin might produce red tinged urine and sweat.
An excess amount of doxorubicin can lead to cardiomyopathy.
An excess amount of doxorubicin can lead to myelosuppression.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because extravasation is not related to the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin, but to the leakage of the medication from the vein into the surrounding tissue. Extravasation can cause severe tissue damage and necrosis, and should be prevented by using a central venous catheter and monitoring the infusion site.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because red tinged urine and sweat are not related to the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin, but to the normal excretion of the medication from the body. Red tinged urine and sweat are expected side effects of doxorubicin and do not indicate toxicity or harm.
Choice C reason: This is correct because an excess amount of doxorubicin can lead to cardiomyopathy, which is a serious and potentially fatal complication of the medication. Cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes weak and unable to pump blood effectively. The risk of cardiomyopathy increases with the cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin, which should not exceed 450 to 550 mg/m2.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because myelosuppression is not related to the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin, but to the dose-dependent effect of the medication on the bone marrow. Myelosuppression is a condition in which the production of blood cells is reduced, leading to anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Myelosuppression can be managed by adjusting the dose and frequency of doxorubicin and monitoring the blood counts.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Taking this medication with 8 ounces of water is not necessary. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets are designed to dissolve under the tongue and be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream. Drinking water may interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of the medication.
Choice B reason: Taking one tablet at the first indication of chest pain is the correct instruction. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets are used to relieve anginal pain by dilating the coronary arteries and improving blood flow to the heart. The client should place one tablet under the tongue as soon as chest pain occurs and wait for it to dissolve.
Choice C reason: Taking one tablet every 15 minutes during an acute attack is not the correct instruction. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets have a short duration of action and may not provide adequate relief for a prolonged anginal attack. The client should follow the rule of three: take one tablet every 5 minutes for up to three doses. If the pain is not relieved after three doses, the client should call 911 or seek emergency medical attention.
Choice D reason: Taking this medication after each meal and at bedtime is not the correct instruction. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets are not used for the prevention of angina. They are only used for the treatment of acute anginal episodes. Taking this medication regularly may cause tolerance and reduce its effectiveness.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A - Catheter Occlusion: This occurs when the catheter is blocked, preventing the flow of fluids or medication. It is usually indicated by difficulty in flushing the catheter or a slow drip rate¹. However, it does not typically cause a gurgling sound.
Choice B - (Catheter migration) is correct because when a central venous catheter (CVC) migrates from its original position, the tip can enter a smaller vein or a different location where turbulence occurs. This may cause the client to hear a gurgling or bubbling sound, especially during infusion or with position changes. Migration can happen due to coughing, movement, or changes in pressure, and it doesn’t necessarily involve the catheter being visibly out of place
Choice C - (Catheter dislodgment) is incorrect because dislodgment typically refers to the catheter being partially pulled out of the insertion site. This would be more likely to cause external signs like visible catheter movement or fluid leakage at the insertion site, rather than internal gurgling sounds. Gurgling is more associated with internal changes in catheter position, as seen with migration.
Choice D - Catheter Rupture: This is a break or tear in the catheter. It can cause serious complications, including infection and embolism. However, a gurgling sound is not a typical symptom of a catheter rupture¹.
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