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 is an essential part of care for a child with asthma during an acute episode?

A. Administer a bronchodilator
B. Provide high doses of steroids
C. Increase fluid intake
D. Restrict all physical activity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Administering a bronchodilator is an essential part of caring for a child with asthma during an acute episode because it helps to open airways and relieve acute asthma symptoms effectively. Providing high doses of steroids (Choice B) is typically done in severe cases or when other treatments fail. Increasing fluid intake (Choice C) can be beneficial to prevent dehydration, but it is not the primary intervention during an acute asthma episode. Restricting all physical activity (Choice D) is not recommended as some physical activity may help improve lung function and overall well-being.

3. Why must a child with acute laryngotracheobronchitis be kept NPO?

A. The epinephrine administration may cause nausea and vomiting
B. The child is being hydrated with IV fluids
C. The child may not feel hungry
D. Rapid respirations pose a risk for aspiration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In acute laryngotracheobronchitis, rapid respirations increase the risk of aspiration due to compromised airway protection and potential for secretions to enter the lungs. Keeping the child NPO helps prevent the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Choice A is incorrect because epinephrine is not typically used for laryngotracheobronchitis. Choice B is incorrect as hydration with IV fluids does not eliminate the risk of aspiration. Choice C is also incorrect because the child being hungry is not the primary reason for keeping them NPO in this condition.

4. What is the result of the metabolism of energy nutrients?

A. Energy is released.
B. Body fat increases.
C. Energy is destroyed.
D. Body water decreases.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Energy is released during the metabolism of energy nutrients. This released energy is utilized by the body for various functions. Choice B is incorrect because the metabolism of energy nutrients does not directly result in an increase in body fat. Choice C is incorrect as energy is not destroyed but rather transformed and utilized by the body. Choice D is incorrect as the metabolism of energy nutrients does not lead to a decrease in body water.

5. What is a common sign of iron-deficiency anemia in children?

A. Yellowing of the skin
B. Pallor and fatigue
C. Rapid weight gain
D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pallor and fatigue are common signs of iron-deficiency anemia in children. Iron-deficiency anemia is characterized by a decreased production of red blood cells, leading to a paler appearance (pallor) and increased fatigue due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. Yellowing of the skin (choice A) is more commonly associated with liver or bile duct issues. Rapid weight gain (choice C) and increased appetite (choice D) are not typical signs of iron-deficiency anemia.