Chronic Illness NCLEX Questions Related

Review Chronic Illness NCLEX Questions related questions and content

The clinic nurse is caring for a 42-year-old male oncology patient. He complains of extreme fatigue and weakness after his first week of radiation therapy. Which response by the nurse would best reassure this patient?

  • A. These symptoms usually result from radiation therapy; however, we will continue to monitor your laboratory and x-ray studies
  • B. These symptoms are part of your disease and are an unfortunately inevitable part of living with cancer
  • C. Try not to be concerned about these symptoms. Every patient feels this way after having radiation therapy
  • D. Even though it is uncomfortable, this is a good sign. It means that only the cancer cells are dying
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Radiation zaps energy fatigue and weakness are par for the course, tied to inflammation and repair in treated tissues. Saying this, plus promising lab and imaging checks, reassures him it's expected, not a red flag, and keeps him in the loop. Blaming cancer alone dodges the treatment link, unsettling him. Dismissing it as universal or a good sign' feels flippant normal cells die too. Nurses in oncology lean on honesty and vigilance, easing fears while tracking for worse issues like anemia or infection.