Nursing Elites

1. A patient was admitted with gastric cancer. The patient asks the nurse about things to expect while receiving chemotherapy. Which of the following statements of the nurse shows incompetence?

• A. You can expect hair loss, but do not worry it will grow back immediately
• B. You may be infected easily, so avoid going to overpopulated places
• C. We may need to monitor your uric acid levels
• D. We may need to monitor your RBCs

Correct answer: A

Rationale: While hair loss (alopecia) is a common side effect of chemotherapy due to the damage to rapidly dividing hair follicle cells, the statement that hair will grow back "immediately" is inaccurate and misleading. Hair regrowth after chemotherapy takes time, typically starting a few weeks to months after treatment ends. The new hair may also have a different texture or color initially. Therefore, this statement indicates a lack of understanding and could give the patient unrealistic expectations, which is why it shows incompetence.

2. The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Which would the nurse expect to note specifically in this disorder?

• A. Increased calcium level
• B. Increased white blood cells
• C. Decreased blood urea nitrogen level
• D. Decreased number of plasma cells in the bone marrow

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In multiple myeloma, the nurse would expect to note an increased calcium level in the laboratory results. This elevation is due to bone destruction caused by the disease, releasing calcium into the bloodstream. Increased white blood cells (Choice B) are not typically associated with multiple myeloma. Additionally, a decreased blood urea nitrogen level (Choice C) is not a common finding in this disorder. Multiple myeloma is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to an increased number of plasma cells, not a decreased number (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is an increased calcium level.

3. When planning care for a 77-year-old male admitted with suspected acute myeloid leukemia (AML), what epidemiologic fact should the nurse be aware of?

• A. Early diagnosis is associated with good outcomes.
• B. Five-year survival for older adults is approximately 50%.
• C. Five-year survival for patients over 75 years old is less than 2%.
• D. Survival rates are wholly dependent on the patient's pre-illness level of health.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of AML, the 5-year survival rate significantly decreases with age. The 5-year survival rate for patients over 75 years old is less than 2% compared to 43% for those 50 years or younger, and 19% for those between 50 and 64 years. Choice A is incorrect as early diagnosis does not necessarily guarantee good outcomes in AML. Choice B is inaccurate as the 5-year survival rate is not approximately 50% for older adults with AML. Choice D is incorrect as survival rates for AML patients are influenced by various factors beyond just the pre-illness level of health.

4. A nurse is caring for a patient who has a diagnosis of acute leukemia. What assessment most directly addresses the most common cause of death among patients with leukemia?

• A. Monitoring for infection
• B. Monitoring nutritional status
• C. Monitoring electrolyte levels
• D. Monitoring liver function

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring for infection. In patients with acute leukemia, the most common cause of death is usually infection or bleeding. By closely monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, altered mental status, or elevated white blood cell count, healthcare providers can intervene promptly. Monitoring nutritional status (choice B) is important but does not directly address the most common cause of death among leukemia patients. Monitoring electrolyte levels (choice C) and liver function (choice D) are also important assessments in cancer patients; however, they are not the most direct assessment to address the leading cause of death in patients with leukemia.

5. The nurse should plan to implement which intervention in the care of a client experiencing neutropenia as a result of chemotherapy?

• A. Restrict all visitors.
• B. Restrict fluid intake.
• C. Teach the client and family about the need for hand hygiene.
• D. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to prevent skin breakdown.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In clients experiencing neutropenia, particularly due to chemotherapy, the immune system is significantly compromised, increasing the risk of infections. Hand hygiene is one of the most effective methods for preventing the spread of pathogens that can lead to infections. Teaching both the client and their family about the importance of frequent and proper handwashing helps create a safer environment and reduces the risk of infections, which can be critical in neutropenic patients.

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