The nurse is caring for a patient who has chronic lymphocytic ...

[imanialler]

The nurse is caring for a patient who has chronic lymphocytic leukemia and is receiving fludarabine (Fludara). What laboratory tests would the nurse review prior to administration of this medication?
 
  a. Complete blood cell count
  b. Serum protein levels
  c. Renal function studies
  d. Liver function studies

Question 2

The nurse would correctly describe the method of action of cell-cycle specific anticancer agents as toxic only to cells
 
  a. that are passing through a particular phase of the cell cycle.
  b. in the M phase.
  c. in the S phase.
  d. that have a high mitotic index in their natural state.

[jesse.fleming]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The nurse should review the CBC. Fludarabine may cause neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia.
Protein levels are not indicated.
Renal and liver function tests are not indicated, because fludarabine is not associated with toxicity of the liver or kidneys. It has been associated with pulmonary toxicity.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Phase-specific agents are toxic only to cells passing through a particular phase of the cell cycle.
Cell-cycle specific anticancer agents may be toxic in either the M phase or the S phase, but the wording of the question eliminates these two choices by speaking of the action of these agents in general.
Cell-cycle specific anticancer agents are toxic to all cells regardless of their mitotic state.

[imanialler]

Great answer, keep it coming

[yeungji]

TYSM