Med Surg RN NCLEX Questions Related

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A 68-year-old male has been receiving monthly doses of chemotherapy for treatment of stage III colon cancer. He comes to the clinic for his fourth monthly dose. Which laboratory result(s) should be reported to the oncologist before the next dose of chemotherapy is administered? Select all that apply.

  • A. Hemoglobin of 14.5 g/dL.
  • B. Platelet count of 40,000/mm³.
  • C. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 12 mg/dL.
  • D. White blood cell count of 2,300/mm³.
  • E. Temperature of 101.2°F (38.4°C).
  • F. Urine specific gravity of 1.020.
Correct Answer: B,D,E

Rationale: Low platelet count (B), low white blood cell count (D), and fever (E) indicate thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and possible infection, respectively, which are contraindications for chemotherapy due to increased risk of bleeding and infection.