Author Question: An oncology home care nurse is preparing to administer a chemotherapeutic agent to a patient at the ... (Read 78 times)

SO00 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

An oncology home care nurse is preparing to administer a chemotherapeutic agent to a patient at the patient's home. What precautions will the nurse take while administering the IV chemotherapeutic agent?

a. Clear a counter space for preparation of the solution.
b. Don a surgical mask while administering the drug.
c. Take surgical scrubs to wear during the infusion.
d. Wear an impermeable, disposable gown when hanging the drug.

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving intravenous mechlorethamine (Mustargen). The patient reports pain at the IV site, and the nurse assesses swelling and pallor at the site. What action will the nurse take?

a. Administer an analgesic medication.
b. Apply a warm compress to the site.
c. Slow the infusion and notify the provider.
d. Stop the infusion immediately.

sierrahalpin · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Nurses should take precautions when handling cytotoxic drugs if inhalation, ingestion, or contact with skin and mucous membranes is possible. When hanging an IV solution, it is possible to splash solution onto the skin, so the nurse should wear a disposable, impermeable gown. If the nurse has to prepare a solution at home, a plastic-backed pad should be used as a surface. When there is a risk of aerosol exposure, a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Healthapproved respirator is necessary. Surgical masks do not provide adequate respiratory protection. Surgical scrubs are permeable.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Methchlorethamine is a severe vesicant and can cause tissue necrosis if it infiltrates into the tissues. The nurse should stop the infusion.