a nurse works with clients who have alopecia from chemotherapy what action by the nurse takes priority
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Oncology Questions

1. A nurse works with clients who have alopecia from chemotherapy. What action by the nurse takes priority?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Teaching measures to prevent scalp injury. Alopecia makes the scalp more vulnerable to injury, so educating clients on protective measures is crucial. Choices A and B focus on emotional support and reassurance, which are important but secondary to physical safety. Referring clients to a wig shop (choice C) addresses appearance but does not directly address the physical risk associated with scalp vulnerability.

2. A client is admitted to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of Hodgkin’s disease. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect to note specifically in the client?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Hodgkin’s disease (Hodgkin’s lymphoma) is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, particularly affecting the lymph nodes. A hallmark sign of Hodgkin’s disease is the painless enlargement of lymph nodes, often in the neck, armpit, or groin. These enlarged lymph nodes are typically firm and rubbery to the touch. This is one of the most distinctive and common early signs that healthcare providers look for when diagnosing the disease.

3. The clinic nurse is caring for a 42-year-old male oncology patient. He complains of extreme fatigue and weakness after his first week of radiation therapy. Which response by the nurse would best reassure this patient?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Fatigue and weakness are common side effects of radiation therapy, often due to the body’s response to radiation damage and the energy required to repair both cancerous and healthy cells affected by the treatment. Reassuring the patient that these symptoms are expected while also emphasizing ongoing monitoring (through lab and x-ray studies) provides both comfort and a sense of proactive care. It ensures the patient that their symptoms are being addressed in a safe and medically appropriate way.

4. Nurse Lisa is assessing a client who has just completed radiation therapy to the neck area. Which of the following findings is most concerning?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) following radiation therapy to the neck area is a significant concern because it can indicate serious complications such as esophageal stricture, inflammation, or damage to the surrounding tissues, including the esophagus. This can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration, all of which require prompt intervention. Radiation therapy can cause irritation and scarring in the esophageal and throat tissues, which may progressively worsen if not treated. Therefore, dysphagia should be addressed immediately to prevent further complications.

5. A patient with Hodgkin lymphoma is receiving chemotherapy. Which side effect is the nurse most concerned about?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Peripheral neuropathy. This can be a serious and dose-limiting side effect of chemotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma. Peripheral neuropathy can cause tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands and feet due to nerve damage. While nausea and vomiting, alopecia, and fatigue are common side effects of chemotherapy, they are not typically as concerning or dose-limiting as peripheral neuropathy in the context of Hodgkin lymphoma treatment.

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