Diagnostic testing has resulted in a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in an adult patient who is otherwise healthy. The patient and the care team have collaborated and the patient will soon begin induction therapy. The nurse should prepare the patient for which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: An aggressive course of chemotherapy. In the treatment of AML, induction therapy typically involves a combination of chemotherapy drugs to achieve remission. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cancer cells in the bone marrow. This approach aims to eradicate leukemic cells and allow normal blood cell production to resume. Daily treatment with targeted medications (choice A) is not typically the first-line approach for AML. Radiation therapy (choice B) is not commonly used in the induction phase of AML treatment. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (choice C) is a treatment option for certain cases of AML but is usually considered after achieving remission with chemotherapy. Therefore, the most appropriate preparation for the patient in this scenario is to expect an aggressive course of chemotherapy to begin induction therapy.