Which complications or responses to chemotherapy have a greater impact among older adults who receive intravenous chemotherapy? (Select all that apply.)
a. Alopecia
b. Headache
c. Nausea and vomiting
d. Neutropenia
e. Peripheral neuropathy
f. Stomach and intestinal changes
C, D, E
Nausea and vomiting do not occur more frequently in older adults compared with younger adults, but they are more likely to lead to dehydration in older adults. Older adults have age-related reduced activity of the bone marrow, including production of white blood cells. This reduced activity is intensified with chemotherapy, greatly increasing their risk for life-threatening infection. Peripheral nerve function decreases with aging; chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy occurs at lower dosages in older adults, increasing these patients' risk for injury. Chemotherapy-induced alopecia, headache, and stomach/intestinal alterations do not appear to occur more frequently in older adults than younger adults.
You might also like to view...
You are caring for a patient who has sustained multiple internal injuries, including fractured ribs and a fractured femur. The patient is intubated and on a ventilator. The best method of pain management would be
A) intramuscular injections PRN for severe pain. B) an intermittent IV injection when the pain is severe. C) a continuous intravenous infusion of analgesics. D) nonpharmacological pain relief measures such as massage.
A client is complaining of dull flank pain. List the order of the steps the nurse should take in conducting the physical assessment for this client
1. Instruct the client. 2. Assess the general appearance. 3. Position the client. 4. Inspect the abdomen for color, contour, symmetry, and distention.
What should a patient be encouraged to do before the initiation of any anti-HIV drug protocol?
a. Give up sexual activity for several months. b. Follow the strict dietary guidelines. c. Comply with the drug protocol. d. Involve the partner in a support program.
Which is the most critical element of pediatric emergency care?
a. Airway management b. Prevention of neurological impairment c. Maintaining adequate circulation d. Supporting the child's family