The nurse administers aldesleukin to a patient diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma. When assessing the patient a few days later, what abnormal findings would the nurse attribute to the medication? (Select all that apply.)

Question

A) Increased lymphocyte count
B) Increased red blood cell count
C) Increased platelet count
D) Irregular pulse rate
E) Increased blood pressure

Answer 1

A, C, D
Feedback:
Aldesleukin activates human cellular immunity and inhibits tumor growth through increases in lymphocytes, platelets, and cytokines. Common adverse effects include hypotension, sinus tachycardia, arrhythmias, as well as pruritus, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, GI bleeding, bone marrow suppression, respiratory difficulties, fever, chills, pain, mental status changes, and dizziness. There is no impact on red blood cell count. It does not raise blood pressure.