A woman with breast cancer is undergoing chemotherapy. Which side effect would the nurse interpret as being most serious?
Vomiting
Fatigue
Hair loss
Myelosuppression
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Vaginal pH of 3 is not the correct answer because it is not a finding of bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the vaginal environment is. A normal vaginal pH ranges from 3.8 to 4.5, which helps prevent infections by maintaining a balance of healthy bacteria (lactobacilli). Bacterial vaginosis can cause an increase in vaginal pH above 4.5, which allows harmful bacteria (anaerobes) to grow and cause symptoms.
Choice B: Cervical bleeding on contact is not the correct answer because it is not a finding of bacterial vaginosis. Cervical bleeding on contact is a sign of inflammation or injury to the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It can be caused by various factors such as infection, trauma, or cancer. Bacterial vaginosis does not affect the cervix directly, but it can increase the risk of other infections or complications that may cause cervical bleeding.
Choice C: Fishy odor of discharge is the correct answer because it is a finding of bacterial vaginosis. The fishy odor of discharge is a characteristic symptom of bacterial vaginosis that occurs due to the breakdown of organic compounds (amines) by the anaerobic bacteria. The odor is usually more noticeable after sexual intercourse or during menstruation.
Choice D: Yellowish-green discharge is not the correct answer because it is not a finding of bacterial vaginosis. Yellowish-green discharge is a sign of infection or inflammation of the vagina or cervix, such as trichomoniasis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. These infections can cause symptoms such as itching, burning, or pain in the genital area. Bacterial vaginosis usually causes a thin, gray-white, or milky discharge that does not cause irritation or discomfort.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Baby oil is not an acceptable lubricant, as it can damage the condom and reduce its effectiveness. The students should use water-based or silicone-based lubricants instead.
Choice B reason: Ensuring a tight fit of the condom is not advisable, as it can cause discomfort and increase the risk of breakage. The students should leave some space at the tip of the condom to collect semen and prevent spillage.
Choice C reason: Only using latex condoms is correct, as they are more effective than other materials in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The students should avoid using condoms made of natural skin or lambskin, as they are porous and can allow viruses to pass through.
Choice D reason: Placing the condom on an erect penis is correct, as it ensures proper application and prevents slippage. The students should unroll the condom over the entire length of the penis before any sexual contact.
Choice E reason: Storing the condoms in a cool dry place is correct, as it prevents exposure to heat, moisture, sunlight, or sharp objects that can damage the condom. The students should check the expiration date and integrity of the condom before use.
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