The nurse on a bone marrow transplant unit is caring for a patient with cancer who is preparing for HSCT. What is a priority nursing diagnosis for this patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Patients preparing for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) undergo intensive chemotherapy and/or radiation, which significantly suppresses their immune system. This immunosuppression leads to a heightened risk for infection, making it the most critical nursing diagnosis for these patients. As the body's ability to fight off pathogens is compromised, close monitoring and interventions aimed at preventing infections are essential for their safety and recovery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the case of lung cancer that has metastasized to the bones and liver, lymphatic circulation is a key mechanism by which cancer cells spread from the primary tumor site to distant organs. Cancer cells can invade nearby lymphatic vessels and travel through the lymphatic system, eventually reaching lymph nodes and spreading to other tissues and organs. This route is significant in the metastasis of many types of cancer, including lung cancer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Secondary prevention. In the context of cancer prevention, secondary prevention involves activities such as screening to detect cancer early when treatment is more effective. This educational program's focus on screening for relevant cancers aligns with the goals of secondary prevention by aiming to identify cancer in its early stages. Option A) Disease prophylaxis typically involves measures to prevent the occurrence of a disease, not specifically focused on early detection like screening. Option B) Risk reduction involves reducing the likelihood of developing a disease, which may include lifestyle changes or interventions to lower risk factors but does not directly address early detection through screening. Option D) Tertiary prevention involves managing and improving outcomes for individuals already diagnosed with a disease, focusing on reducing complications and disabilities rather than early detection. In an educational context, understanding the distinctions between different levels of prevention is crucial for healthcare professionals to effectively plan and implement interventions that address the specific needs of individuals at different stages of disease development. This knowledge helps in tailoring interventions to promote optimal health outcomes and quality of life for patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of caring for a patient with cancer who is at risk for hypercalcemia, the correct answer is C) Consume 2 to 4 L of fluid daily. This is crucial because adequate hydration helps to promote renal excretion of excess calcium, thus reducing the risk of hypercalcemia. By encouraging the patient to increase their fluid intake, the nurse is actively supporting the patient's overall health and helping to manage a potential complication of cancer treatment. Option A) Stool softeners are contraindicated is incorrect because stool softeners can actually be beneficial in managing constipation, a common side effect of cancer treatment, which can contribute to hypercalcemia. Option B) Laxatives should be taken daily is incorrect as daily laxative use may lead to electrolyte imbalances and exacerbate the risk of hypercalcemia. Option D) Restrict calcium intake is incorrect because while excessive calcium intake can contribute to hypercalcemia, a complete restriction of calcium is not necessary. It is more important to focus on adequate hydration and monitoring calcium levels rather than strict dietary restrictions. Educationally, it is important for nurses and healthcare providers to understand the importance of fluid balance in managing complications such as hypercalcemia in cancer patients. Teaching patients and families about the significance of hydration can empower them to actively participate in their care and improve outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A) The different leukemias all involve unregulated proliferation of white blood cells. This is because leukemia is a type of cancer that specifically affects the blood and bone marrow, leading to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. This uncontrolled growth of white blood cells is a hallmark feature of all subtypes of leukemia. Option B is incorrect because leukemia does not involve unregulated proliferation of red blood cells; rather, it primarily affects white blood cells. Additionally, leukemia does not typically result in decreased bone marrow function but rather disrupts normal blood cell production. Option C is incorrect as leukemia leads to an increase, not a decrease, in the production of white blood cells. The abnormal white blood cells produced in leukemia are ineffective in fighting infections, leading to an increase in their numbers. Option D is incorrect because leukemia does not primarily involve the development of cancer in the lymphatic system. Leukemia originates in the bone marrow and affects the blood cells produced there. Understanding the commonalities between different subtypes of leukemia is crucial for healthcare providers, especially oncology nurses, as it helps in providing accurate patient education and tailored care. By recognizing the shared characteristic of unregulated proliferation of white blood cells, nurses can better explain the disease process, treatment options, and potential complications to patients and their families.