Chemotherapy Nausea and Vomiting

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Questions and Answers

What type of nausea or vomiting occurs within the first 24 hours after chemotherapy?

Delayed nausea

Chronic nausea

Anticipatory nausea

Acute nausea (correct)

Which chemotherapy drug is NOT commonly associated with nausea and vomiting?

Aspirin (correct)

Cyclophosphamide

Cisplatin

Dacarbazine

What is the mechanism behind anticipatory nausea or vomiting?

Direct action of chemotherapy drugs on the stomach

Associating sights, sounds, or smells with past experiences of nausea (correct)

Hydration levels during treatment

Negative side effects from medication

Which combination of drugs is known to have a higher chance of causing nausea and vomiting?

Daunorubicin plus cyclophosphamide Signup and view all the answers

What type of medication is prescribed to patients before chemotherapy to manage nausea and vomiting?

Anti-emetics Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is true about delayed nausea or vomiting?

It happens more than 24 hours after chemotherapy is administered. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason certain chemotherapy drugs may increase the risk of nausea and vomiting?

Interactions with other drugs or high dosages Signup and view all the answers

How do doctors typically respond to the potential for nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy?

They often prescribe specific anti-emetic medication before treatment. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should a patient do if they continue to experience nausea and vomiting after taking prescribed medication?

Call their doctor immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What type of foods are recommended for a patient experiencing diarrhea?

Fruits like applesauce and bananas. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms should prompt a patient to call their doctor concerning diarrhea?

Bleeding in their stools. Signup and view all the answers

What is an important practice for patients to help manage constipation?

Engaging in regular physical activity. Signup and view all the answers

What should patients do if they lose 5 pounds or more after diarrhea starts?

Call their doctor for further advice. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of liquids are suggested for a patient suffering from diarrhea?

Non-caffeinated soft drinks and clear fruit juices. Signup and view all the answers

Which dietary option should patients avoid before undergoing chemotherapy to manage nausea?

Fatty or greasy foods. Signup and view all the answers

Which sign indicates that a patient should seek immediate medical help regarding constipation?

Inability to urinate for 12 hours or more. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the recommended actions for patients when experiencing nausea?

Sipping on liquids throughout the day. Signup and view all the answers

What type of medication can help manage constipation in patients undergoing treatment?

Stool softeners like Colace. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are significant side effects of chemotherapy and biotherapy, causing anxiety for patients.
Three types of nausea/vomiting associated with chemotherapy:
- Acute: Occurs within the first 24 hours post-treatment.
- Delayed: Happens more than 24 hours after treatment.
- Anticipatory: Occurs before treatment due to previous experiences of nausea/vomiting.
Triggers for anticipatory nausea include sights, sounds, or smells associated with prior treatments.
Certain chemotherapy drugs have higher incidences of nausea and vomiting, including:
- Carmustine, Cisplatin, Cyclophosphamide (high doses), Dacarbazine, Daunorubicin with Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin with Cyclophosphamide, Epirubicin with Cyclophosphamide, Idarubicin with Cyclophosphamide.
Not all chemotherapy treatments induce nausea; anti-emetic medications are prescribed when necessary.
Patients receive anti-emetics intravenously before treatment and are given prescriptions for home use.
Management tips for patients experiencing nausea/vomiting:
- Adhere to prescribed medications.
- Eat small, frequent meals to prevent an empty stomach.
- Avoid heavy, greasy foods before treatment.
- Steer clear of strong or unpleasant odors.
- Sip on clear liquids (e.g., ginger ale) throughout the day.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another common side effect of chemotherapy and biotherapy.
Recommendations for managing diarrhea:
- Consume 8 to 10 non-caffeinated cups of fluids daily (64 to 80 ounces).
- Sports drinks or broth can replenish lost minerals and electrolytes.
- Clear liquids (e.g., apple juice, ginger ale, gelatin) may be easier to tolerate.
- Eat foods high in soluble fiber (e.g., ripe bananas, applesauce, boiled potatoes, white rice, oatmeal).
- Avoid fatty, fried, spicy foods, and limit milk products.
Patients should consult their doctor regarding preferred medications for diarrhea management.
Indicators for contacting a doctor about diarrhea include:
- Six or more episodes per day persisting for over two days.
- Presence of blood in stools.
- Weight loss of five pounds or more after diarrhea onset.
- Inability to urinate for over twelve hours.
- Inability to consume liquids for twenty-four hours.

Constipation

Constipation can result from medications, decreased activity, or inadequate nutrition and hydration.
Symptoms include stomach discomfort, gas, nausea, and decreased appetite.
Management strategies for preventing constipation:
- Drink 8 to 10 cups of fluids daily (warm liquids may be beneficial).
- Maintain physical activity, such as walking short distances.
- Consider medications like stool softeners (e.g., Colace) upon consultation with a doctor.
- Take a tablespoon of mineral oil or flaxseed oil as needed.
Patients should not ignore constipation; unresolved issues should be reported to a doctor.

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Description

This quiz explores the different types of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and biotherapy. Understand acute, delayed, and anticipatory nausea to help manage side effects better. This knowledge is essential for patients and caregivers navigating treatment side effects.