A patient develops neutropenia after receiving chemotherapy. ...

[sheilaspns]

A patient develops neutropenia after receiving chemotherapy. Which information about ways to prevent infection will the nurse include in the teaching plan (select all that apply)?
 
  a. Cook food thoroughly before eating.
  b. Choose low fiber, low residue foods.
  c. Avoid public transportation such as buses.
  d. Use rectal suppositories if needed for constipation.
  e. Talk to the oncologist before having any dental work done.

Question 2

A patient who is being treated for stage IV lung cancer tells the nurse about new-onset back pain. Which action should the nurse take first?
 
  a. Give the patient the prescribed PRN opioid.
  b. Assess for sensation and strength in the legs.
  c. Notify the health care provider about the symptoms.
  d. Teach the patient how to use relaxation to reduce pain.

[vickybb89]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, C, E
Eating only cooked food and avoiding public transportation will decrease infection risk. A high-fiber diet is recommended for neutropenic patients to decrease constipation. Because bacteria may enter the circulation during dental work or oral surgery, the patient may need to postpone dental work or take antibiotics.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Spinal cord compression, an oncologic emergency, can occur with invasion of tumor into the epidural space. The nurse will need to assess the patient further for symptoms such as decreased leg sensation and strength and then notify the health care provider. Administration of opioids or use of relaxation may be appropriate but only after the nurse has assessed for possible spinal cord compression.