A patient taking imatinib voices concern about gaining 5 pounds in the past week. Which response by the nurse is correct?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Weight gain is a known side effect of imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat certain cancers. The nurse should reassure the patient that this is a common occurrence and not necessarily dangerous. However, the patient should be monitored for signs of fluid retention, such as swelling or shortness of breath, which could indicate a more serious condition. Stopping the medication abruptly is not recommended unless advised by the healthcare provider. Dietary changes may help, but they should be discussed with the healthcare team to ensure they do not interfere with treatment.