Author Question: A nurse provides teaching to a patient who will begin taking oral cyclophosphamide to treat ... (Read 139 times)

nelaaney · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A nurse provides teaching to a patient who will begin taking oral cyclophosphamide to treat non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Which statement by the patient indicates an understanding about how to minimize side effects while taking this drug?

a. I don't need to worry about bone marrow suppression with this drug.
b. I should drink plenty of fluids while taking this drug.
c. I should take this drug on an empty stomach.
d. If I shampoo less often, I can prevent hair loss.

Question 2

A nurse is discussing vesicant chemotherapeutic agents with a nursing student. Which statement by the student indicates a need for further teaching about this type of drug?

a. Extravasation of this type of drug may result in the need for skin grafts.
b. If an IV line used for a vesicant drug infiltrates, it must be discontinued immediately.
c. These drugs may be administered orally as well as intravenously.
d. This type of drug may not be infused at a site of previous irradiation.

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

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Acute hemorrhagic cystitis can occur; this can be minimized by maintaining adequate hydration and taking mesna (Mesnex), a protective agent. Bone marrow suppression is a dose-limiting side effect. This drug should be taken with food. Hair loss cannot be prevented by shampooing less often.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Vesicants are given intravenously. Extravasation may cause severe local tissue injury, requiring skin grafts. Vesicants that infiltrate must be stopped immediately. Sites of previous irradiation should not be used.