In assessing a client with esophageal cancer being treated with radiation therapy, which finding(s) would alert the nurse to a possible side effect of this treatment?
A profound feeling of tiredness
Renal impairment
Expectoration of frothy sputum
Development of bone marrow suppression
The Correct Answer is A
A. A profound feeling of tiredness is a common side effect of radiation therapy due to fatigue caused by the treatment itself and the body's response to cancer.
B. Renal impairment is not a typical direct side effect of radiation therapy for esophageal cancer; it is more commonly associated with treatments targeting the kidneys or systemic therapies.
C. Expectoration of frothy sputum may indicate pulmonary issues or fluid overload but is not a common side effect specifically related to radiation therapy for esophageal cancer.
D. Development of bone marrow suppression is possible but less common specifically with radiation therapy compared to chemotherapy, which is more directly associated with this side effect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Bowel sounds, abdominal girth, and NG tube output provide important information about gastrointestinal function and the potential for complications like ileus or obstruction. However, they do not provide direct information regarding fluid volume status.
B. Vital signs (including blood pressure and heart rate), cardiac rhythm, and peripheral pulses are the first indicators to assess for decreased fluid volume. Hypovolemia often manifests as tachycardia, hypotension, and weak peripheral pulses, which are critical early signs of fluid depletion.
C. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and daily weight are useful in assessing kidney function and long-term fluid status, but they may not be as immediate indicators of acute fluid volume changes in the immediate postoperative period.
D. Respiratory rate, depth, and pulse oximetry are important for assessing respiratory function and oxygenation. While fluid volume imbalances can impact respiratoryfunction, these parameters are not the most direct indicators of fluid volume status.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Requesting a prescription to culture the wound is the priority action because the presence of redness, warmth, and serosanguinous drainage could indicate an infection that needs to be confirmed and treated appropriately.
B. While antibiotics may be necessary if an infection is confirmed, it is crucial to first determine the presence of infection through culturing the wound.
C. Assuring the client that these findings are normal may delay necessary intervention if an infection is present, which could worsen the client's condition.
D. Cleaning the wound with sterile normal saline may be appropriate as part of wound care, but it does not address the underlying concern of possible infection and would not be prioritized over obtaining a culture.
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