Pharmacology of Cancer Treatments

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is a side effect commonly associated with chemotherapy?

  • Weight gain
  • Hair loss (correct)
  • Increased energy levels
  • Improved immune function

What is a recommended dietary practice for individuals concerned about cancer?

  • High intake of processed foods
  • Frequent sugary drinks
  • Unlimited consumption of red meats
  • Increased lean protein and vegetables (correct)

Which of the following is classified as an alkylating agent used in chemotherapy?

  • Tamoxifen
  • Cyclophosphamide (correct)
  • Aspirin
  • Vitamin D

What symptom might indicate an advanced stage of cancer?

<p>Unintentional weight loss (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition related to chemotherapy can affect the production of blood cells?

<p>Bone marrow suppression (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which lifestyle choice is important to avoid for reducing cancer risk?

<p>Tobacco use (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which immunization is recommended to prevent a virus associated with multiple cancer types?

<p>Hepatitis B (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action should be taken to protect against skin cancer risk?

<p>Protecting skin from UV rays (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What common side effect can occur in the GI tract due to rapid cell division?

<p>Mucositis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is recommended for managing elevated uric acid levels?

<p>Administer allopurinol (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which chemotherapy agent is associated with irreversible cardiomyopathy?

<p>Doxorubicin hydrochloride (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for using gamma rays in radiation therapy?

<p>They can penetrate tissues effectively. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of radiation therapy involves the radiation source being external to the patient?

<p>Teletherapy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of chemotherapy, what cognitive impact is commonly referred to as 'chemo brain'?

<p>Reduce ability to concentrate and recall information. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical nursing intervention during radiation therapy to ensure effective treatment?

<p>Ensuring precise client positioning. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of radiation therapy allows for high doses to be delivered while sparing surrounding tissue?

<p>Brachytherapy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What intervention is recommended to enhance the immune system in patients experiencing bone marrow suppression?

<p>Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is administered to manage thrombocytopenia?

<p>Oprelvekin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can patients manage nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy?

<p>Take antiemetics before therapy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which side effect occurs due to chemotherapy treatment and typically leads to hair regrowth approximately one month after finishing treatment?

<p>Alopecia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when monitoring a patient with neutropenia?

<p>Consider any temperature elevation as a possible sign of infection (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a recommended dietary practice for managing anorexia in cancer patients?

<p>Provide soft, bland, high-protein foods (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of epoetin alfa in cancer treatment?

<p>To boost red blood cell production (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following options is NOT an intervention for managing alopecia caused by chemotherapy?

<p>Avoiding all hair care products (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Cancer Treatment Modalities

  • Cisplatin: A chemotherapy drug used to treat various cancers by damaging DNA.
  • Chemotherapy Categories:
    • Antimetabolites: Include fluorouracil and methotrexate for disrupting cancer cell metabolism.
    • Antibiotics: Doxorubicin hydrochloride, bleomycin, dactinomycin target cancer cells directly.
    • Antimitotics: Vincristine and vinblastine inhibit cell division.
    • Hormones: Estrogen, progesterone, tamoxifen citrate, and paclitaxel modify hormonal pathways in cancer.
    • Biological Modifiers: Epoetin alfa and filgrastim boost immune function and red blood cell production.

Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatments

  • Bone Marrow Suppression: Causes neutropenia and leukopenia; monitor white blood cell count and implement infection precautions.
  • Anemia: Hemoglobin less than 10 g/dL; manage with oxygen therapy, iron-rich foods, and blood transfusions.
  • Thrombocytopenia: Low platelet count; administer platelet transfusions and use bleeding precautions.
  • Alopecia: Loss of hair occurs two weeks after starting treatment; offers potential solutions like ice application or wig referrals.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Treat with antiemetics before therapy; encourage small, nutritious meals.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

  • Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on low-fat diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake.
  • Avoid Risk Factors: Reduce exposure to environmental hazards, avoid recreational drugs, and practice safe sex.
  • Nutrition: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein while reducing processed foods and red meat.

Chemoprevention Strategies

  • Utilize medications like aspirin and celecoxib for colon cancer prevention.
  • Vitamin D and tamoxifen may lower breast cancer risk.
  • Vaccinations against HPV and Hepatitis B can reduce cancer risk.

Screening Recommendations

  • Regular screenings for various cancers; mammograms, colonoscopies, PSA testing for prostate cancer, and Pap tests at age 21.
  • Low-dose helical CT scans recommended for older adults with a significant smoking history.

Risk Assessments

  • Age: Cancer risk increases as age progresses.
  • Immune Factors: Immunosuppressed individuals have a higher risk.
  • Genetics: Family history of breast or colon cancer can necessitate genetic testing.

General Symptoms of Cancer

  • Unintentional weight loss, persistent fatigue, weakness, pain which may appear late in disease progression.

Cancer Management Overview

  • Employ chemotherapy and other treatments to attack rapidly dividing cells in tumors; effectiveness is higher in fast-growing cancers.

Specific Medication Toxicities

  • Doxorubicin causes irreversible cardiomyopathy.
  • Methotrexate may lead to renal toxicity.
  • Vincristine sulfate is linked to peripheral neuropathy.

Cognitive Effects of Chemotherapy

  • "Chemo brain" refers to cognitive impairment during and after treatment, affecting concentration and memory.

Radiation Therapy

  • Utilizes gamma rays to destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to normal cells; includes teletherapy and brachytherapy.
  • Teletherapy: External radiation patients receive from a machine.
  • Brachytherapy: Involves placing radioactive material inside or near tumors, posing radiation exposure risks to others.

Nursing Interventions for Radiation Therapy

  • Ensure accurate patient positioning for consistent and effective treatment delivery.

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