Nursing Elites

1. An oncology nurse is caring for a patient with multiple myeloma who is experiencing bone destruction. When reviewing the patient's most recent blood tests, the nurse should anticipate what imbalance?

• A. Hypercalcemia
• B. Hyperproteinemia
• C. Elevated serum viscosity
• D. Elevated RBC count

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Hypercalcemia. In multiple myeloma, bone destruction can lead to the release of calcium from the bones into the bloodstream, causing hypercalcemia. This imbalance is commonly seen in patients with multiple myeloma. Choice B, Hyperproteinemia, is not typically associated with bone destruction in multiple myeloma. Choice C, Elevated serum viscosity, and Choice D, Elevated RBC count, are not directly related to the bone destruction seen in multiple myeloma.

2. What advice should the oncology nurse give to a client planning a beach vacation after completing radiation treatments for cancer?

• A. Avoid getting salt water on the radiation site.
• B. Do not expose the radiation area to direct sunlight.
• C. Have a wonderful time and enjoy your vacation!
• D. Remember you should not drink alcohol for a year.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the skin at the radiation site is sensitive to sunlight, and exposure can cause further damage. It is crucial to protect the area from direct sunlight to prevent skin irritation or burns. Choice A is incorrect as salt water typically does not pose a significant risk to the radiation site. Choice C is a positive and encouraging response but does not provide necessary advice for post-radiation care. Choice D, while important in some cases, is not directly related to the client's beach vacation after completing radiation treatments.

3. A patient on the oncology unit is receiving carmustine, a chemotherapy agent, and the nurse is aware that a significant side effect of this medication is thrombocytopenia. Which symptom should the nurse assess for in patients at risk for thrombocytopenia?

• A. Interrupted sleep pattern
• B. Hot flashes
• C. Epistaxis (nose bleed)
• D. Increased weight

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which increases the risk of bleeding and hemorrhage. Patients receiving chemotherapy agents like carmustine may experience thrombocytopenia as a significant side effect. Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is a common symptom associated with thrombocytopenia, as the blood vessels can become more fragile, and even minor trauma or spontaneous bleeding can occur. Therefore, assessing for signs of bleeding, including epistaxis, is crucial in patients at risk for thrombocytopenia.

4. A nurse is teaching a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) about potential complications. Which complication should the nurse emphasize?

• A. Infection
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Fatigue
• D. Splenomegaly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Infection. Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are at a significant risk of infection due to their compromised immune system. Emphasizing the importance of infection prevention and prompt treatment is crucial in the care of these patients. Choice B, Hemorrhage, is less common in CLL compared to other types of leukemia. Choice C, Fatigue, is a common symptom but not a complication that poses immediate risks. Choice D, Splenomegaly, is a common finding in CLL but not the most critical complication to emphasize regarding patient education.

5. What is a characteristic of normal cells?

• A. They have no functions
• B. They have a larger nucleus
• C. They undergo apoptosis
• D. They have a dark-colored nucleus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is that normal cells undergo apoptosis, which is a programmed cell death process essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis. Choice A is incorrect as normal cells do have specific functions. Choice B is incorrect as the size of the nucleus may vary but is not a defining characteristic of normal cells. Choice D is incorrect as the color of the nucleus is not a standard characteristic of normal cells.

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