ATI RN
Oncology Questions
1. A 54-year-old has a diagnosis of breast cancer and is tearfully discussing her diagnosis with the nurse. The patient states, 'They tell me my cancer is malignant, while my coworker's breast tumor was benign. I just don't understand at all.' When preparing a response to this patient, the nurse should be cognizant of what characteristic that distinguishes malignant cells from benign cells of the same tissue type?
- A. Slow rate of mitosis of cancer cells
- B. Different proteins in the cell membrane
- C. Differing size of the cells
- D. Different molecular structure in the cells
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Malignant cells have different proteins in their membranes, such as tumor-specific antigens, which distinguish them from benign cells. Choice A is incorrect as cancer cells typically have a rapid and uncontrolled rate of mitosis. Choice C is incorrect as the size of cells alone does not distinguish between malignant and benign cells. Choice D is incorrect as the molecular structure is not the primary characteristic that distinguishes between malignant and benign cells.
2. In an adult patient, which assessment finding is considered diagnostic of Hodgkin lymphoma?
- A. Schwann cells
- B. Reed-Sternberg cells
- C. Lewy bodies
- D. Loops of Henle
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Reed-Sternberg cells. In Hodgkin lymphoma, the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells in lymph node biopsy is diagnostic. These cells are large, atypical cells originating from B-lymphocytes. They are distinctive in appearance and are key to diagnosing Hodgkin lymphoma. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Schwann cells are related to nerve function, Lewy bodies are associated with Parkinson's disease, and Loops of Henle are structures in the kidney, none of which are specific to Hodgkin lymphoma.
3. In caring for a patient with a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving induction therapy on the oncology unit, what nursing action should be prioritized in the patient's care plan?
- A. Protective isolation and vigilant use of standard precautions
- B. Provision of a high-calorie, low-texture diet and appropriate oral hygiene
- C. Including the family in planning the patient's activities of daily living
- D. Monitoring and treating the patient's pain
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protective isolation and vigilant use of standard precautions. Induction therapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) can lead to neutropenia, significantly increasing the risk of infections. Therefore, the priority is to protect the patient from potential pathogens by implementing protective isolation measures and adhering to strict standard precautions. This action is crucial for the patient's survival. Choice B is incorrect as nutritional support and oral hygiene are important but not the priority in this situation. Choice C, involving the family in planning activities, is a valuable aspect of care but not the priority during induction therapy. Choice D, monitoring and treating pain, is essential but ensuring protection against infection takes precedence due to the high risk of neutropenia.
4. When working with clients experiencing alopecia, what is the best method for a nurse to help them manage the psychosocial impact of this issue?
- A. Assisting the client in pre-planning for this event.
- B. Reassuring the client that alopecia is temporary.
- C. Teaching the client ways to protect the scalp.
- D. Telling the client that there are worse side effects.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Assisting the client in pre-planning for alopecia is the best method to help them manage the psychosocial impact of the issue. By helping clients anticipate and prepare for the challenges associated with alopecia, they can cope better with the psychological impact. Reassuring the client that alopecia is temporary (choice B) may provide false hope as some types of alopecia are permanent. Teaching ways to protect the scalp (choice C) is important but not the most effective method for managing the psychosocial impact. Telling the client that there are worse side effects (choice D) is dismissive of the client's feelings and not helpful in addressing the psychosocial impact of alopecia.
5. A nurse who works in an oncology clinic is assessing a patient who has arrived for a 2-month follow-up appointment following chemotherapy. The nurse notes that the patient's skin appears yellow. Which blood tests should be done to further explore this clinical sign?
- A. Liver function tests (LFTs)
- B. Complete blood count (CBC)
- C. Platelet count
- D. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Corrected Detailed Rationale: Yellow skin is a sign of jaundice, which is often associated with liver disease. Liver function tests (LFTs) help in evaluating liver health and function. A complete blood count (CBC) primarily assesses red and white blood cells and platelets, not directly related to jaundice. Platelet count specifically measures platelets in the blood and is unrelated to the yellow skin observed in this patient. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine tests focus on kidney function, not typically associated with yellow skin, making them less relevant in this context.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $149.99