ATI Oncology Quiz

ATI RN

1. The nurse is caring for a client following a mastectomy. Which nursing intervention would assist in preventing lymphedema of the affected arm?

A. Placing cool compresses on the affected arm
B. Elevating the affected arm on a pillow above heart level
C. Avoiding arm exercises in the immediate postoperative period
D. Maintaining an intravenous site below the antecubital area on the affected side

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After a mastectomy, particularly when lymph nodes are removed, there is an increased risk of lymphedema in the affected arm due to impaired lymphatic drainage. Elevating the affected arm above heart level helps promote lymphatic drainage and reduces the risk of swelling. This intervention facilitates the return of lymph fluid and helps prevent fluid accumulation in the arm.

2. A new nurse has been assigned a client who is in the hospital to receive iodine-131 treatment. Which action by the nurse is best?

A. Ensure the client is placed in protective isolation.
B. Have pregnant visitors stay 6 feet from the client.
C. No special action is necessary to care for this client.
D. Read the policy on handling radioactive excreta.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Handling radioactive excreta requires special precautions; the nurse must be familiar with the facility's policies.

3. An older adult patient is undergoing diagnostic testing for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). What assessment finding is certain to be present if the patient has CLL?

A. Increased numbers of blast cells
B. Increased lymphocyte levels
C. Intractable bone pain
D. Thrombocytopenia with no evidence of bleeding

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An increased lymphocyte count (lymphocytosis) is always present in patients with CLL.

4. The nurse is teaching a client about the signs of infection after chemotherapy. Which of the following should the nurse emphasize?

A. Frequent urination
B. Increased thirst
C. Chills and shaking
D. Fever over 100.4Â°F (38Â°C)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In clients undergoing chemotherapy, the immune system is often compromised due to the effects of treatment, making them more susceptible to infections. A fever over 100.4Â°F (38Â°C) is considered a critical sign of infection in these patients and requires immediate medical evaluation. Fever may indicate the presence of an infection that could escalate quickly in immunocompromised individuals, so it is vital for patients to recognize this symptom and seek prompt medical attention.

5. Which of the following descriptions of chemotherapy is correct?

A. Chemotherapy is externally given through high energy waves
B. Chemotherapy is known to have fatigue as a common side effect
C. Chemotherapy spreads throughout the body
D. Chemotherapy attacks cancer cells only

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chemotherapy drugs are typically administered systemically, meaning they circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream. This allows them to target cancer cells that may have spread beyond the original tumor site, making chemotherapy an effective treatment for cancers that are metastatic (have spread to other parts of the body). However, because chemotherapy is not selective, it can also affect healthy cells that divide rapidly, leading to a range of side effects.