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 the primary purpose of a placebo in an experiment?

A. To reduce the cost of the experiment.
B. To make the experiment double-blind.
C. To increase the number of participants.
D. To serve as a control for comparison with the treatment group.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A placebo serves as a control for comparison with the treatment group, helping to eliminate bias and ensure the results are due to the treatment itself. Placebos are crucial in research to distinguish the actual effect of the treatment from psychological or subjective factors. Choice A is incorrect because the purpose of a placebo is not related to reducing the cost of the experiment. Choice B is incorrect because while placebos are used in double-blind studies, their primary purpose is not to make the experiment double-blind. Choice C is incorrect because the purpose of a placebo is not to increase the number of participants but rather to serve as a comparison group for the treatment being tested.

3. How should a healthcare professional respond to a parent concerned about their child's weight gain?

A. Provide guidance on healthy eating and physical activity
B. Suggest restrictive dieting
C. Recommend increased caloric intake
D. Avoid discussing the issue

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a parent expresses concern about their child's weight gain, the most appropriate response is to provide guidance on healthy eating and physical activity. This approach promotes healthy weight management and overall well-being. Suggesting restrictive dieting (Choice B) can be harmful, especially for children, as it may lead to unhealthy relationships with food and potential nutritional deficiencies. Recommending increased caloric intake (Choice C) without proper assessment and guidance can exacerbate the issue. Avoiding discussing the issue (Choice D) neglects a critical opportunity to address the parent's concerns and support the child's health.

4. What is the primary role of dietary guidelines?

A. To ensure that all food groups are consumed in appropriate proportions.
B. To prevent chronic diseases and promote overall well-being.
C. To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.
D. To offer specific recommendations for the intake of nutrients that support health.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To help individuals meet their nutritional needs while reducing the risk of chronic disease.' Dietary guidelines are designed to provide guidance on the types and amounts of food that support good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Choice A has been corrected to mention 'appropriate proportions' instead of 'equal amounts,' as dietary guidelines emphasize balance and variety. Choice B is partially correct, but the primary focus of dietary guidelines is on meeting nutritional needs. Choice D is incorrect because while dietary guidelines may include nutrient recommendations, their primary focus is on overall dietary patterns rather than specific nutrient intake.

5. What is a crucial aspect of managing a child with cystic fibrosis?

A. High-sugar diet
B. Daily chest physiotherapy
C. Frequent use of antacids
D. Limiting fluid intake

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Daily chest physiotherapy is crucial in managing cystic fibrosis as it helps clear mucus from the lungs, improves respiratory function, and reduces the risk of lung infections. High-sugar diets are not recommended for individuals with cystic fibrosis as they can contribute to mucus production, exacerbating respiratory issues. Frequent use of antacids is not a primary treatment for cystic fibrosis, as it does not address the underlying lung issues. Limiting fluid intake is not typically advised for individuals with cystic fibrosis, as adequate hydration is essential for maintaining lung function and thinning mucus secretions.