Which initial assessment findings would the nurse expect in a client diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia ALL? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
Ascites
Alopecia
Generalized edema
Petechiae
Epistaxis
Correct Answer : D,E
A) Ascites
Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, is not a typical initial assessment finding in acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). While ascites can occur in some cancers or in cases of liver failure, it is not a hallmark or common finding in ALL. The focus in ALL would generally be on hematologic and immunologic symptoms rather than fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
B) Alopecia
Alopecia (hair loss) is more commonly associated with chemotherapy treatment for leukemia rather than the leukemia itself. While chemotherapy for ALL can lead to hair loss, it is not typically an initial symptom of the disease itself. Alopecia may appear later, as a side effect of cancer treatment.
C) Generalized edema
Generalized edema (swelling) is not a common or early sign of acute lymphocytic leukemia. While edema can occur in certain malignancies or complications (like in cases of renal failure or heart failure), it is not typically an initial presenting symptom of ALL. The key manifestations of ALL tend to relate to hematologic abnormalities, rather than fluid accumulation.
D) Petechiae
Petechiae (small, red or purple spots on the skin) are a common finding in ALL. They occur due to thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), which is a hallmark of leukemia. Thrombocytopenia impairs the blood’s ability to clot, leading to bleeding under the skin. Petechiae is often one of the first visible signs of blood dyscrasia in leukemia patients.
E) Epistaxis
Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is another common initial finding in ALL. Like petechiae, epistaxis occurs due to thrombocytopenia, which impairs normal clotting and leads to spontaneous bleeding. Nosebleeds are frequently observed in patients with low platelet counts, especially in leukemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) A Rhinovirus infection can cause cancer of the cervix
Rhinovirus is primarily associated with the common cold and respiratory infections, not with cervical cancer. The risk factors for cervical cancer are related to persistent infections with certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), especially high-risk types like HPV-16 and HPV-18, which can lead to cervical dysplasia and, eventually, cervical cancer.
B) Eating foods high in fat and taking birth control pills are risk factors
While diet and certain medications may influence overall health, eating foods high in fat and taking birth control pills are not primary risk factors for cervical cancer. Research has shown that certain hormonal contraceptives (especially long-term use) may slightly increase the risk of cervical cancer, but the most significant and well-established risk factor is HPV infection, not fat intake or birth control use.
C) The earlier the age of sexual activity and the more partners, the greater the risk
The major risk factor for cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk HPV. Early initiation of sexual activity and having multiple sexual partners increase the risk of HPV infection, which is a leading cause of cervical cancer. HPV is transmitted through sexual contact, and early exposure to the virus, as well as repeated exposure to multiple partners, increases the likelihood of acquiring a high-risk strain of HPV.
D) Having yearly Pap smears will protect you from developing cancer
While Pap smears (Pap tests) are important for detecting precancerous changes (such as dysplasia) or early-stage cervical cancer, they do not prevent cancer. Pap smears can help identify abnormal cell changes that can be treated before they develop into cancer, but they do not protect against the development of cancer.
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
A) There are no obvious symptoms or problems: Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the "silent killer" because it tends to develop without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often vague and nonspecific, such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, or changes in bowel habits. By the time ovarian cancer is diagnosed, it is frequently at an advanced stage, making it more difficult to treat effectively. This lack of early, clear symptoms contributes significantly to the high death rate associated with the disease.
B) Radiation therapy is ineffective because the ovaries are located so deep within the pelvis: While ovarian cancer is located deep within the pelvis, radiation therapy can still be effective for certain types of tumors. However, the primary reason for high death rates is not the location of the ovaries, but the late-stage diagnosis and difficulty in detecting the cancer early.
C) The causative cancer cell is resistant to chemotherapy or radiation: While some ovarian cancer cells may exhibit resistance to treatment, this is not the main reason for the high mortality rate. The real issue is the lack of early detection, as ovarian cancer is often diagnosed when it has already spread beyond the ovaries. Early-stage ovarian cancer may be more responsive to treatment, but by the time symptoms are noticeable, the cancer is often advanced, which limits the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation.
D) Ovarian cancer occurs primarily among women over age 70 that also have other complicating health problems: Although the incidence of ovarian cancer increases with age, particularly after age 60, it is not the primary factor contributing to high death rates. Many women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are relatively healthy except for the cancer itself.
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