a patient with a history of breast cancer is being prescribed tamoxifen nolvadex what should the nurse include in the patient education about the use

ATI RN

WGU Pathophysiology Final Exam

1. A patient with a history of breast cancer is being prescribed tamoxifen (Nolvadex). What should the nurse include in the patient education about the use of this medication?

A. Tamoxifen may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, so the patient should be aware of the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
B. Tamoxifen may cause hot flashes, so the patient should be prepared for this side effect.
C. Tamoxifen may decrease the risk of osteoporosis, so the patient should ensure adequate calcium intake.
D. Tamoxifen may cause weight gain, so the patient should monitor their diet and exercise regularly.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Tamoxifen is known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, a serious side effect. Patients should be educated about the signs and symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, or redness in the affected limb, and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if they occur. Choice B is incorrect because hot flashes are a common side effect of tamoxifen but not a critical concern like venous thromboembolism. Choice C is incorrect as tamoxifen is not associated with a decreased risk of osteoporosis. Choice D is incorrect because while weight gain can occur with tamoxifen, it is not as crucial to educate the patient about as the risk of venous thromboembolism.

2. After ingestion of cysts, how long does it take for the symptoms of giardiasis to develop?

A. 12 to 24 hours
B. 3 to 5 days
C. 1 to 2 weeks
D. 2 to 3 months

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Giardiasis symptoms typically develop 3 to 5 days after ingestion of the cysts. This timeframe aligns with the incubation period of the Giardia parasite. Choice A (12 to 24 hours) is too short for giardiasis to manifest. Choice C (1 to 2 weeks) and choice D (2 to 3 months) represent durations that are not consistent with the usual onset of symptoms in giardiasis.

3. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) often causes which of the following?

A. Colon cancer
B. Hiatal hernia
C. Peptic ulcer disease
D. Esophageal varices

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium known to cause peptic ulcer disease by weakening the protective lining of the stomach and duodenum, leading to inflammation and ulcers. While chronic H. pylori infection is a risk factor for stomach cancer, it is not directly linked to colon cancer (Choice A), hiatal hernia (Choice B), or esophageal varices (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is C.

4. An oncology nurse is providing care for an adult patient who is currently immunocompromised. The nurse is aware of the physiology involved in hematopoiesis and immune function, including the salient role of cytokines. What is the primary role of cytokines in maintaining homeostasis?

A. Cytokines perform phagocytosis in response to bacterial and protozoal infections.
B. Cytokines perform a regulatory role in the development of diverse blood cells.
C. Cytokines play a significant role in the formation of all blood cells.
D. Cytokines are produced in response to the presence of antibodies.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary role of cytokines in maintaining homeostasis is to perform a regulatory function in the development of diverse blood cells. Cytokines act as signaling molecules that regulate the immune response and hematopoiesis. Choice A is incorrect because cytokines do not perform phagocytosis; they regulate immune responses. Choice C is incorrect because while cytokines are involved in the formation of some blood cells, they are not considered the basic 'building blocks' of all blood cells. Choice D is incorrect because cytokines are not formed in response to antibodies, but rather play a role in the immune response to various stimuli.

5. What are the characteristics of the inflammatory process?

A. Loss of function, coolness
B. Pain, redness
C. Heat, pallor
D. Swelling, pallor

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pain, redness. Inflammation is characterized by pain and redness as part of the body's response to tissue injury. Choice A, loss of function and coolness, are not primary characteristics of inflammation. Choice C, heat and pallor, may be present in some cases but are not as consistently associated with inflammation as pain and redness. Choice D, swelling and pallor, includes swelling which is common in inflammation but pallor is not a typical characteristic.