While teaching a client starting therapy with rituximab, which of the following findings should the nurse instruct the client to report?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In teaching a client starting therapy with rituximab, it is crucial for the nurse to instruct the client to report fever (Option B) among the listed findings. This is because rituximab, a biologic agent used to treat various conditions including autoimmune disorders and certain cancers, can suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Fever can indicate an infection, which can be severe in immunocompromised individuals on rituximab. The other options - dizziness (Option A), urinary frequency (Option C), and dry mouth (Option D) - are less likely to be directly related to rituximab therapy. While dizziness can occur as a side effect of rituximab, it is not as urgent or indicative of a serious complication as fever in this context. Urinary frequency and dry mouth are typically not associated with rituximab use and are less concerning compared to potential infections. From an educational perspective, understanding the side effects and potential complications of medications like rituximab is essential for nurses to provide safe and comprehensive care to their patients. In this scenario, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and promptly reporting signs of infection, such as fever, can help prevent serious consequences and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Sore throat. When a client is starting therapy with topotecan, a topoisomerase inhibitor commonly used in chemotherapy, it is crucial for the nurse to instruct the client to report any signs of infection promptly. Topotecan can suppress the bone marrow, leading to decreased production of white blood cells, increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, a sore throat could be indicative of an infection that needs immediate attention to prevent complications. Option A) Hair loss is a common side effect of many chemotherapy drugs, including topotecan, but it is not typically a sign of an urgent or serious issue that requires immediate reporting. Option B) Fatigue is also a common side effect of chemotherapy but is not specific to topotecan. While it is important for the nurse to address fatigue, it is not the most critical finding to report immediately in this case. Option D) Red urine is a known side effect of topotecan due to its excretion pathway, but it is not typically a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other symptoms like pain or difficulty urinating. In an educational context, understanding the side effects and potential complications of chemotherapy drugs like topotecan is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to clients undergoing cancer treatment. Teaching clients to recognize and report early signs of infection is vital in preventing serious complications and ensuring timely intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the side effects and monitoring parameters for specific medications is crucial for safe and effective patient care. In the case of capecitabine, a chemotherapy medication, the nurse should monitor for neutropenia. Neutropenia is a common side effect of chemotherapy drugs like capecitabine, which suppress bone marrow function, leading to a decrease in neutrophils, an essential type of white blood cell responsible for fighting infections. Option A, hyperglycemia, is not typically associated with capecitabine and is more commonly seen with medications like corticosteroids or certain antipsychotics. Option B, hypocalcemia, is not a known side effect of capecitabine but may occur with medications that affect calcium metabolism or parathyroid function. Option D, bradycardia, is not a common side effect of capecitabine but may be seen with medications that affect cardiac conduction. Understanding the specific side effects of medications helps nurses provide comprehensive care by monitoring for and managing potential complications. In oncology, monitoring for neutropenia is crucial to prevent infections and ensure patient safety during cancer treatment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid foods high in vitamin K. Vitamin K can interfere with the effectiveness of Warfarin by counteracting its anticoagulant effects. Foods high in vitamin K, such as leafy green vegetables, should be limited in the diet of individuals taking Warfarin to maintain a consistent level of the medication's effectiveness.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Hyponatremia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly prescribed to help with fluid retention by increasing urine output. One of the main mechanisms of action of loop diuretics like Furosemide is to inhibit sodium reabsorption in the loop of Henle. This leads to increased sodium excretion in the urine, which can result in hyponatremia, a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood. Option A) Hyperkalemia is incorrect because loop diuretics like Furosemide can actually lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to increased potassium excretion in the urine. Option C) Hypernatremia is incorrect because Furosemide's mechanism of action leads to the loss of sodium, making hypernatremia (high sodium levels) unlikely. Option D) Hypercalcemia is incorrect because Furosemide does not directly affect calcium levels in the body, so hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) is not a common adverse effect associated with its use. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the pharmacological actions and potential side effects of medications like Furosemide to provide safe and effective patient care. Monitoring for adverse effects such as hyponatremia is crucial to prevent complications and ensure the client's well-being while on this medication. Nurses should be vigilant in assessing electrolyte levels and educating clients on signs and symptoms to watch for while taking Furosemide.