CHEMO AND RADIATION

Question 1

what medications help with chemotherapy?

Answer 1

ondansetron for nausea and vomiting

filgrastim to stimulate production or neutrophils

Question 2

what are side effects of filgrastim to watch for?

Answer 2

can cause bone pain, splenomegaly, and leukocytosis

Question 3

what are lab findings for chemotherapy?

Answer 3

decreased everything in CBC

Question 4

when should ondansetron not be given?

Answer 4

do not give ondansetron if patient has long QT syndrome

Question 5

what are side effects of chemotherapy?

Answer 5

1. pancytopenia which is destruction of all blood cells
2. mucosal ulcers so avoid hot and spicy foods
3. avoid lidocaine due to increase risk of aspiration because the area is numb so you cant tell if patient is swallowing
4. alopecia so help them pick out a hairpiece prior to treatment
5. infection so take temperature every day

Question 6

when should chemo be done?

Answer 6

chemo should be done early in the morning

Question 7

what is the purpose of radiation?

Answer 7

affects rapidly growing cells

Question 8

what are patient teaching to explain to the patient when they are doing radiation?

Answer 8

1. do not wash marks off the skin
2. wash with lukewarm water, use hands and not a washcloth, and pat dry
3. do not use soap, lotion, powder, and creams
4. wear loose cotton clothing and keep area protected from sun
5. notify provider if blisters or red, tender skin occur