A woman with breast cancer is undergoing chemotherapy. Which side effect would the nurse interpret as being most serious?

Vomiting

Fatigue

Hair loss

Myelosuppression

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A: Vomiting is not the most serious side effect because it is a common and manageable side effect of chemotherapy. Vomiting is a reflex action that expels the contents of the stomach through the mouth. It can be caused by various factors such as nausea, motion sickness, or infection. It can also be caused by chemotherapy, which can irritate the lining of the stomach or trigger the vomiting center in the brain. Vomiting can be prevented or treated with antiemetic drugs, hydration, and dietary changes.

Choice B: Fatigue is not the most serious side effect because it is a common and manageable side effect of chemotherapy. Fatigue is a condition that causes extreme tiredness or exhaustion that is not relieved by rest or sleep. It can be caused by various factors such as anemia, inflammation, or pain. It can also be caused by chemotherapy, which can damage healthy cells and tissues and affect the body's energy production. Fatigue can be managed with exercise, nutrition, and stress reduction.

Choice C: Hair loss is not the most serious side effect because it is a common and temporary side effect of chemotherapy. Hair loss is a condition that causes hair to fall out from the scalp or other parts of the body. It can be caused by various factors such as genetics, hormones, or infection. It can also be caused by chemotherapy, which can target rapidly dividing cells such as hair follicles and prevent hair growth. Hair loss usually occurs within two to four weeks after starting chemotherapy and reverses within six months after stopping chemotherapy.

Choice D: Myelosuppression is the most serious side effect because it is a rare and life-threatening side effect of chemotherapy. Myelosuppression is a condition that causes a decrease in the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. It can lead to anemia (low red blood cells), neutropenia (low white blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets), which can cause symptoms such as weakness, infection, and bleeding. It can also be caused by chemotherapy, which can target rapidly dividing cells such as bone marrow cells and impair blood cell formation. Myelosuppression requires close monitoring and treatment with blood transfusions, growth factors, or antibiotics.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Danazol is a synthetic androgen that can be used to treat fibrocystic breast disease, as it can reduce estrogen levels and shrink breast tissue.

Choice B reason: Penicillin is an antibiotic that has no effect on fibrocystic breast disease, as it does not target hormonal or cellular changes in the breast.

Choice C reason: Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist that can be used to treat fibrocystic breast disease, as it can lower prolactin levels and reduce breast tenderness.

Choice D reason: Tamoxifen is an antiestrogen that can be used to treat fibrocystic breast disease, as it can block estrogen receptors and inhibit breast cell growth.

A. Do not apply heat to the area of irradiation. B. Use an antibiotic ointment to treat skin breakdown. C. Lubricate the skin with hypoallergenic lotion. D. Do not wash the area of irradiation.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A: Do not apply heat to the area of irradiation. This instruction is correct and should be included in the teaching. Applying heat to the area of irradiation can increase inflammation, pain, or burning sensation on the skin. The client should avoid heat sources such as hot water, heating pads, or sun exposure in the area of irradiation.

Choice B: Use an antibiotic ointment to treat skin breakdown. This instruction is not correct and should not be included in the teaching. Using an antibiotic ointment to treat skin breakdown can cause allergic reactions, infection, or interference with radiation therapy. The client should consult with her provider before using any topical products in the area of irradiation.

Choice C: Lubricate the skin with hypoallergenic lotion. This instruction is not correct and should not be included in the teaching. Lubricating the skin with hypoallergenic lotion can cause irritation, infection, or interference with radiation therapy. The client should avoid applying any lotions, creams, or oils on the area of irradiation unless prescribed by her provider.

Choice D: Do not wash the area of irradiation. This instruction is not correct and should not be included in the teaching. Washing the area of irradiation can help prevent infection, remove dead skin cells, and reduce odor. The client should wash the area of irradiation gently with mild soap and water, pat it dry, and avoid rubbing or scrubbing.

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A woman with breast cancer is undergoing chemotherapy. Which side effect would the nurse interpret as being most serious?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is working with a woman who has been diagnosed with severe fibrocystic breast disease. After describing the medications that can be used as treatment, the nurse determines that additional teaching is needed when the client identifies which drug is being used.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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