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?

Unintentional weight loss Signup and view all the answers

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

Bone marrow suppression Signup and view all the answers

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

Tobacco use Signup and view all the answers

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

Hepatitis B Signup and view all the answers

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

Protecting skin from UV rays Signup and view all the answers

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

Mucositis Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is recommended for managing elevated uric acid levels?

Administer allopurinol Signup and view all the answers

Which chemotherapy agent is associated with irreversible cardiomyopathy?

Doxorubicin hydrochloride Signup and view all the answers

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

They can penetrate tissues effectively. Signup and view all the answers

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

Teletherapy Signup and view all the answers

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

Reduce ability to concentrate and recall information. Signup and view all the answers

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

Ensuring precise client positioning. Signup and view all the answers

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

Brachytherapy Signup and view all the answers

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

Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following medications is administered to manage thrombocytopenia?

Oprelvekin Signup and view all the answers

How can patients manage nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy?

Take antiemetics before therapy 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?

Alopecia Signup and view all the answers

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

Consider any temperature elevation as a possible sign of infection Signup and view all the answers

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

Provide soft, bland, high-protein foods Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of epoetin alfa in cancer treatment?

To boost red blood cell production Signup and view all the answers

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

Avoiding all hair care products Signup and view all the answers

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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Description

Explore the various categories of cancer treatments, including antimetabolites, antibiotics, antimitotics, hormones, and biological modifiers. This quiz also covers common side effects like bone marrow suppression and interventions to improve patient wellbeing. Test your knowledge on how these treatments work and their impact on the body.