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The patient is receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer. Which of the following laboratory values would be most important to monitor?

  • A. White blood cell count
  • B. Hemoglobin level
  • C. Serum creatinine
  • D. Blood glucose level
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Monitoring the white blood cell count is crucial when a patient is undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. Chemotherapy can lead to neutropenia, a condition of low white blood cell count, which significantly increases the risk of infections. Monitoring white blood cell count helps healthcare providers intervene promptly to prevent severe infections. Hemoglobin level, while important in assessing oxygen-carrying capacity, is not the priority in this scenario. Serum creatinine and blood glucose levels are not directly impacted by chemotherapy for breast cancer.