patient is experiencing bone marrow depression as a result of chemotherapy. Which assessment should the nurse expect because of this health problem?

platelet count of 50.000

nausea and vomiting

temperature of 38.9 C (102F)

alopecia

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Platelet count of 50,000 is low (normal is usually 150,000-450,000), and this can be associated with bone marrow depression caused by chemotherapy. However, bone marrow depression itself doesn't cause a fever directly. The low platelet count increases the risk of bleeding, but it wouldn't necessarily lead to a temperature elevation by itself.

B. Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy but are not directly related to bone marrow depression. Bone marrow depression typically affects the production of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets), but nausea and vomiting are more directly associated with the chemotherapy agents themselves rather than the resulting bone marrow suppression.

C. A fever of 38.9°C (102°F) could indicate an infection, which is a serious risk for patients with bone marrow depression due to chemotherapy. The suppression of white blood cell (WBC) production from chemotherapy leads to neutropenia, leaving the patient more vulnerable to infections. A fever in this context is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention, as it may signify a bacterial or fungal infection, which could be life-threatening in an immunocompromised patient.

D. Alopecia (hair loss) is a well-known side effect of chemotherapy, but it is not a direct consequence of bone marrow depression. It is more related to the chemotherapy drugs affecting rapidly dividing cells, like those in hair follicles. While it is a common and distressing symptom, it is not an indicator of bone marrow function or depression.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Hypoxia is common after surgery due to the effects of anesthesia and the client being in a supine position. A pulse oximetry reading of 88% indicates mild hypoxia. The first step in managing this is to encourage deep breathing or to have the patient use an incentive spirometer to improve ventilation and oxygenation. This is a non-invasive method that can help increase oxygen levels and prevent complications like atelectasis (lung collapse).

B. While opioid overdose can cause respiratory depression, there is no indication that the client is showing signs of opioid toxicity (e.g., unresponsiveness, slow/shallow breathing). The client is sleepy but easily arousable, suggesting that the sleepiness is related to the residual effects of anesthesia rather than opioid overdose. Administering naloxone is not indicated unless there are signs of severe respiratory depression or unresponsiveness, which is not the case here.

C. While postoperative hypothermia can occur, it is unlikely to cause oxygen saturation to drop to 88%. The priority action should be to improve the client's oxygenation first, as that is more immediately critical in this scenario.

D. The client's oxygen saturation of 88% is concerning, but it is manageable with initial interventions such as encouraging deep breathing. Calling a rapid response team would be appropriate if the patient's condition worsens or doesn't improve with initial interventions.

A. using waxed dental floss B. using an alcohol based mouthwash C. soaking dentures in hydrogen peroxide D. using a soft or bristled toothbrush

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Waxed dental floss is generally safe for most patients, including those receiving chemotherapy. It is important to be gentle when flossing to avoid injuring sensitive gums, which may be more prone to bleeding during chemotherapy due to reduced platelet count.

B. Alcohol-based mouthwashes should be avoided during chemotherapy because they can cause dryness and irritation to the mucous membranes in the mouth, which are already sensitive due to the side effects of chemotherapy. Alcohol can exacerbate mucositis (inflammation of the mucous lining) and increase discomfort.

C. Soaking dentures in hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for denture care, as hydrogen peroxide can be used to disinfect dentures. However, it is important to ensure that dentures are thoroughly rinsed after soaking to avoid irritation to the mouth.

D. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is safe and recommended. A soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for patients receiving chemotherapy, as their gums and mouth may become more sensitive. Brushing gently can help maintain oral hygiene without causing injury.

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patient is experiencing bone marrow depression as a result of chemotherapy. Which assessment should the nurse expect because of this health problem?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a client who had a bowel resection for colon cancer. The vital signs were stable during surgery. While in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) the client is sleepy, but awakens easily. The pulse ox is 88%. What would be the priority action by the nurse?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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