Oncology Nursing Certification Flashcards

A patient undergoing chemotherapy develops an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 450 cells/mcL. Which precaution is most important?

Answer: Neutropenic precautions to prevent infection

An ANC below 500 cells/mcL indicates severe neutropenia (nadir), requiring protective neutropenic precautions to reduce infection risk.

Which oncologic emergency is characterized by hypercalcemia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hyperuricemia after cancer treatment?

Answer: Tumor lysis syndrome

Tumor lysis syndrome results from rapid destruction of cancer cells releasing intracellular contents into the bloodstream.

A patient receiving IV chemotherapy via a peripheral line reports burning pain at the site with surrounding erythema and blanching. This is most consistent with:

Answer: Extravasation of a vesicant agent

Burning, erythema, and blanching at a chemotherapy infusion site indicate extravasation of a vesicant, which can cause tissue necrosis.

The nurse is caring for a patient with cancer who reports severe, uncontrolled pain rated 9/10. According to the WHO analgesic ladder, which step of therapy is indicated?

Answer: Step 3: Strong opioids with or without non-opioids

Severe pain (7–10) corresponds to Step 3 of the WHO analgesic ladder, requiring strong opioids such as morphine or oxycodone.

Which chemotherapy agent is classified as an alkylating agent?

Answer: Cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent that works by cross-linking DNA strands, preventing cancer cell replication.

A patient with small cell lung cancer presents with facial edema, distended neck veins, and arm swelling. What is the suspected oncologic emergency?

Answer: Superior vena cava syndrome

Superior vena cava syndrome is caused by tumor compression of the SVC, producing characteristic venous congestion in the upper body.