Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is considered correct in dealing with a patient who has gastric cancer?

• A. After total gastrectomy, patient will have to increase fluids during meals
• B. After total gastrectomy, patient will need lots of fiber in the diet
• C. After total gastrectomy, patient will have to walk about after meals
• D. After total gastrectomy, patient will have to lie flat on bed after meals

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After a total gastrectomy, where the entire stomach is removed, patients can experience dumping syndrome due to the rapid passage of food into the small intestine. This condition can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Lying flat after meals can help slow down the movement of food into the intestines, reducing the risk of dumping syndrome. It's important for patients to follow dietary recommendations and positioning strategies to manage symptoms effectively.

2. The nurse is instructing a client on ways to reduce the risk of lymphedema after a mastectomy. Which of the following should be emphasized?

• A. Elevate the affected arm
• B. Avoid lifting heavy objects
• C. Use compression garments as prescribed
• D. Avoid wearing tight clothing

Correct answer: D

Rationale: After a mastectomy, particularly when lymph nodes are removed, patients are at increased risk for developing lymphedema, which is a buildup of lymph fluid that can cause swelling in the affected arm. Wearing tight clothing can constrict lymphatic flow and increase the risk of developing lymphedema by impeding normal lymphatic drainage. Therefore, it is crucial to advise patients to avoid tight-fitting clothing, especially around the chest and arm areas.

3. Gastric cancer is known to have numerous risk factors. Which of the following is not a risk factor?

• A. Diet high in sodium
• B. Diet with high amounts of chili garlic
• C. Smoking
• D. Diet high in fiber

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A diet high in fiber is not a risk factor for gastric cancer; in fact, it is generally considered protective against cancers. High sodium intake (Choice A) has been associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer. Diets with high amounts of chili garlic (Choice B) may irritate the stomach lining, potentially contributing to the development of gastric cancer. Smoking (Choice C) is a well-established risk factor for various types of cancers, including gastric cancer.

4. Nurse Mandy is teaching a client about the side effects of radiation therapy. Which of the following should the nurse emphasize?

• A. Radiation therapy is painless.
• B. You may experience hair loss.
• C. Fatigue is a common side effect.
• D. You may experience nausea and vomiting.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Fatigue is one of the most frequent and profound side effects of radiation therapy. It often occurs because radiation can damage both cancerous and healthy cells, and the body requires energy to repair the damage caused by the treatment. Fatigue from radiation can be cumulative, meaning it may worsen as treatments progress, and can significantly affect the client’s daily activities, requiring the nurse to educate the client on energy conservation techniques.

5. A patient on the oncology unit is receiving carmustine, a chemotherapy agent, and the nurse is aware that a significant side effect of this medication is thrombocytopenia. Which symptom should the nurse assess for in patients at risk for thrombocytopenia?

• A. Interrupted sleep pattern
• B. Hot flashes
• C. Epistaxis (nose bleed)
• D. Increased weight

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which increases the risk of bleeding and hemorrhage. Patients receiving chemotherapy agents like carmustine may experience thrombocytopenia as a significant side effect. Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is a common symptom associated with thrombocytopenia, as the blood vessels can become more fragile, and even minor trauma or spontaneous bleeding can occur. Therefore, assessing for signs of bleeding, including epistaxis, is crucial in patients at risk for thrombocytopenia.

Similar Questions