Author Question: A client receiving chemotherapy has a very low white blood cell count. Antibiotic therapy is ... (Read 74 times)

crazycityslicker · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A client receiving chemotherapy has a very low white blood cell count. Antibiotic therapy is initiated. What rationales should the nurse provide for the addition of this drug?

1. You have an infection.
2. We would like to prevent you from developing any infections.
3. Chemotherapy often causes infections.
4. This antibiotic will help your chemotherapy fight off your cancer.
5. If you are developing an infection, this medication will help kill it out early.

Question 2

A client who has diabetes mellitus is diagnosed with tuberculosis and has been prescribed multiple-drug therapy. What instruction should the nurse provide to this client?

1. These medications can cause hypoglycemia, so you should always carry a sugar source.
2. Test your blood glucose more frequently while on these medications.
3. If your blood glucose levels elevate consistently, contact us.
4. Take your medication for diabetes at least 6 hours after taking these medications.
5. While on these medications you will be more prone to infections in your feet.

Athena23 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 2,5
Rationale 1: There is no evidence of infection being present.
Rationale 2: Antibiotics are given to those with low WBCs to help prevent or lessen infections.
Rationale 3: The chemotherapy does not cause an infection, but does decrease immunity, allowing infection to occur.
Rationale 4: This antibiotic is not being given to kill cancer cells.
Rationale 5: Prophylactic antibiotics are given to kill bacteria while their numbers are small.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 2,3
Rationale 1: The medication regimen is more likely to cause hyperglycemia.
Rationale 2: These medications may cause hyperglycemia. The client should monitor blood glucose levels more closely.
Rationale 3: Constant elevation of blood glucose levels may warrant alteration in medication therapy for diabetes.
Rationale 4: There is no reason to separate the administration of these medications by 6 hours.
Rationale 5: There is no evidence that medications used to treat tuberculosis will increase the likelihood of infections in the feet.