a client is receiving chemotherapy for the treatment of cancer the nurse monitors the client for which of the following signs indicating a complicatio
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Oncology Test Bank

1. A client is receiving chemotherapy for the treatment of cancer. The nurse monitors the client for which of the following signs indicating a complication of the therapy?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Elevated temperature. A fever may indicate infection, a common and serious complication of chemotherapy, requiring prompt intervention. Choice A, Alopecia, is a common side effect of chemotherapy but not a sign of a complication. Choice B, Weight gain, is not typically a sign of a complication of chemotherapy. Choice D, Decreased hemoglobin level, may occur due to chemotherapy but is not a direct sign of a complication.

2. A 16-year-old female patient experiences alopecia resulting from chemotherapy, prompting the nursing diagnoses of disturbed body image and situational low self-esteem. What action by the patient would best indicate that she is meeting the goal of improved body image and self-esteem?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a patient experiences alopecia due to chemotherapy, it can significantly impact their self-esteem and body image, particularly in adolescents who are especially sensitive to physical changes. A request for makeup and a wig indicates that the patient is actively taking steps to enhance her appearance and cope with the changes brought on by her treatment. This action reflects a positive engagement with her body image and suggests a desire to feel more comfortable and confident in her appearance, signaling an improvement in her self-esteem.

3. After undergoing mastectomy, a patient demonstrates understanding of the nurse's instructions by doing which of the following?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to elevate the affected arm. Elevating the affected arm helps prevent lymphedema after a mastectomy. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. 'Dangling arms at the bedside' does not provide any benefit after a mastectomy. 'Lying down on the affected chest' can cause discomfort and possible complications. 'Drinking plenty of fluids immediately after surgery' is not related to preventing lymphedema post-mastectomy.

4. A nurse in the oncology clinic is providing preoperative education to a client just diagnosed with cancer. The client has been scheduled for surgery in 3 days. What action by the nurse is best?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Clients are often overwhelmed by a sudden cancer diagnosis; therefore, it is best for the nurse to call the client at home the next day to review teaching. This approach allows the client time to process the information before the surgery. Choice B may be beneficial but is not the priority at this time. Providing written instructions (Choice C) is helpful but does not offer the personalized interaction needed. Reassuring the client (Choice D) is important but does not address the educational aspect of preoperative preparation.

5. A client with breast cancer is receiving doxorubicin (Adriamycin). The nurse monitors the client closely for:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) is an anthracycline chemotherapy agent commonly used to treat various cancers, including breast cancer. One of the significant side effects associated with doxorubicin is cardiotoxicity, which can lead to serious complications such as heart failure and arrhythmias. The risk of cardiotoxicity is dose-dependent, meaning that higher cumulative doses increase the likelihood of cardiac damage. Therefore, it is essential for nurses to monitor cardiac function closely through assessments such as echocardiograms or monitoring for signs and symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and edema.

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