The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Which would the nurse expect to note specifically in this disorder?
- A. Increased calcium level
- B. Increased white blood cells
- C. Decreased blood urea nitrogen level
- D. Decreased number of plasma cells in the bone marrow
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In multiple myeloma, the nurse would expect to note an increased calcium level in the laboratory results. This elevation is due to bone destruction caused by the disease, releasing calcium into the bloodstream. Increased white blood cells (Choice B) are not typically associated with multiple myeloma. Additionally, a decreased blood urea nitrogen level (Choice C) is not a common finding in this disorder. Multiple myeloma is characterized by the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to an increased number of plasma cells, not a decreased number (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is an increased calcium level.
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Which of the following is a correct statement by the nurse to a patient under radiation therapy?
- A. Brachytherapy can be performed by a pregnant nurse.
- B. Teletherapy makes the patient radioactive.
- C. Brachytherapy is an internal radiation therapy.
- D. Teletherapy requires proper disposal of feces since it can be a source of radiation.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Brachytherapy is an internal radiation therapy.' Brachytherapy involves the placement of radioactive sources inside or next to the area requiring treatment. This differs from teletherapy, which is external radiation therapy. Choice A is incorrect as pregnant individuals should avoid exposure to radiation. Choice B is incorrect because teletherapy does not make the patient radioactive; the radiation source is external. Choice D is incorrect as feces is not a significant source of radiation during teletherapy.
An oncology nurse is caring for a patient who has developed erythema following radiation therapy. What should the nurse instruct the patient to do?
- A. Periodically apply ice to the area.
- B. Keep the area cleanly shaven.
- C. Apply petroleum jelly to the affected area.
- D. Avoid using soap on the treatment area.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. When a patient develops erythema following radiation therapy, it is essential to avoid further irritation and potential infection. Using soap on the affected area can exacerbate the condition. Applying ice (choice A) may provide temporary relief for discomfort but does not address the underlying issue. Keeping the area cleanly shaven (choice B) is not necessary and may increase the risk of skin irritation. Applying petroleum jelly (choice C) can trap heat and worsen the erythema, so it is not recommended.
Which of the following is not a manifestation of breast cancer?
- A. Peau d'orange
- B. Painless breast mass
- C. Alopecia
- D. Breast enlargement
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Alopecia (hair loss) is not a direct manifestation of breast cancer but rather a common side effect of chemotherapy used in breast cancer treatment. Peau d'orange refers to the dimpling or pitting of the skin resembling an orange peel, which can be a sign of breast cancer due to blockage of lymphatic vessels. A painless breast mass and breast enlargement can both be manifestations of breast cancer, with a painless mass being a common symptom and breast enlargement sometimes occurring due to tumor growth.
The home health nurse is performing a home visit for an oncology patient discharged 3 days ago after completing treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The nurse's assessment should include examination for the signs and symptoms of what complication?
- A. Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)
- B. Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)
- C. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
- D. Hypercalcemia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). Tumor lysis syndrome is a potential complication after treatment for certain cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The rapid breakdown of cancer cells in response to treatment can lead to metabolic abnormalities, such as hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and hyperuricemia, which can be life-threatening. Choice B, Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), is not typically associated with non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment. Choice C, Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), is more commonly seen in conditions such as sepsis or trauma, not directly related to non-Hodgkin lymphoma treatment. Choice D, Hypercalcemia, is not a common complication following treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
A 54-year-old has a diagnosis of breast cancer and is tearfully discussing her diagnosis with the nurse. The patient states, 'They tell me my cancer is malignant, while my coworker's breast tumor was benign. I just don't understand at all.' When preparing a response to this patient, the nurse should be cognizant of what characteristic that distinguishes malignant cells from benign cells of the same tissue type?
- A. Slow rate of mitosis of cancer cells
- B. Different proteins in the cell membrane
- C. Differing size of the cells
- D. Different molecular structure in the cells
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Malignant cells have different proteins in their membranes, such as tumor-specific antigens, which distinguish them from benign cells. Choice A is incorrect as cancer cells typically have a rapid and uncontrolled rate of mitosis. Choice C is incorrect as the size of cells alone does not distinguish between malignant and benign cells. Choice D is incorrect as the molecular structure is not the primary characteristic that distinguishes between malignant and benign cells.