what should be monitored in a child receiving chemotherapy

HESI LPN

LPN Nutrition Practice Test

1. What should be monitored in a child receiving chemotherapy?

A. Blood glucose levels
B. Blood cell counts
C. Weight gain
D. Skin elasticity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring blood cell counts. During chemotherapy, it is crucial to monitor blood cell counts to detect potential side effects such as neutropenia (low white blood cell count) and anemia (low red blood cell count). These conditions can increase the risk of infections and fatigue. Monitoring blood glucose levels (Choice A) is not typically a primary concern in children receiving chemotherapy unless they have pre-existing conditions like diabetes. Weight gain (Choice C) and skin elasticity (Choice D) are not directly related to monitoring the effects of chemotherapy in children. Therefore, the most important parameter to monitor in a child receiving chemotherapy is blood cell counts.

2. What should be assessed first in a child with suspected head trauma?

A. Response to verbal stimuli
B. Pupillary reaction
C. Skin color
D. Heart rate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to assess the response to verbal stimuli first in a child with suspected head trauma. This assessment helps in determining the child's level of consciousness and neurological status. Assessing the response to verbal stimuli allows healthcare providers to quickly evaluate if the child is alert, oriented, and able to communicate effectively. This initial assessment is crucial in identifying any immediate concerns related to the child's neurological function. Choices B, C, and D are not the primary assessments in cases of suspected head trauma. While pupillary reaction, skin color, and heart rate are important assessments in trauma situations, assessing the response to verbal stimuli takes precedence in evaluating the neurological status of a child with head trauma.

3. What is a key dietary consideration for a child with phenylketonuria (PKU)?

A. High-fiber diet
B. Low-phenylalanine diet
C. Increased dairy intake
D. High-sodium diet

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A low-phenylalanine diet is crucial for managing PKU to prevent neurological damage and maintain normal development. Phenylalanine is an amino acid found in protein-containing foods, and individuals with PKU have difficulty metabolizing it. Consuming foods low in phenylalanine helps prevent the buildup of toxic byproducts in the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. A high-fiber diet, increased dairy intake, and high-sodium diet are not specific dietary considerations for PKU management. In fact, dairy products are a source of protein and phenylalanine, which should be limited in PKU.

4. What is a primary goal in managing a child with asthma?

A. Avoiding all physical activities
B. Achieving and maintaining control of asthma symptoms
C. Increasing daily sugar intake
D. Restricting all forms of medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal in managing a child with asthma is to achieve and maintain control of asthma symptoms to ensure the child's well-being and quality of life. This involves using appropriate medications as prescribed, identifying and avoiding triggers, and developing an asthma action plan. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because avoiding all physical activities can lead to deconditioning and is not recommended, increasing daily sugar intake is unrelated to managing asthma, and restricting all forms of medication can be harmful as medications are often necessary to control asthma symptoms.

5. What is an important aspect of managing a child with asthma in a school setting?

A. Limiting physical activity
B. Ensuring access to emergency medications
C. Reducing the number of classes attended
D. Avoiding interaction with other students

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ensuring access to emergency medications. In a school setting, it is crucial to have emergency medications available for a child with asthma in case of an asthma attack. This helps in managing asthma effectively and promptly. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because limiting physical activity, reducing the number of classes attended, and avoiding interaction with other students are not recommended strategies for managing asthma in a school setting. Encouraging physical activity, ensuring regular attendance, and promoting social interactions are important for the overall well-being of a child with asthma.