Oncology IQ
Test your cancer nursing knowledge with ONCC’s OncologyIQ. ONCC will post a new question, the correct answer, and rationale. Follow us on Twitter to get the OncologyIQ question delivered directly to your Twitter feed. Want more questions like this? Check out ONCC Practice Tests!
The nurse has initiated a fluid bolus for a patient with lymphoma who is experiencing hypotension, dyspnea, fatigue, and an elevated serum lactic acid. Which order should be implemented next for an optimal outcome?
a. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
b. Obtain secondary IV access.
c. Begin an infusion of rituximab.
d. Initiate broad-spectrum IV antibiotics.
Answer
d. Initiate broad-spectrum IV antibiotics.
Rationale:
Early identification and intervention of sepsis and sepsis prevention measures is paramount. After appropriately drawing labs and beginning fluid resuscitation, the oncology nurse should initiate IV antibiotics, which studies have shown to improve morbidity and mortality rates.
Reference:
Kaplan, M. (Ed.). (2018). Understanding and managing oncologic emergencies: A resource for nurses (3rd ed.). Oncology Nursing Society, pp. 483-484.