ANCC Oncology Nursing Certification

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Neutropenic precautions to prevent infection

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Tumor lysis syndrome

Answer

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

Question 3

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:

Accepted Answer

Extravasation of a vesicant agent

Answer

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

Question 4

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?

Accepted Answer

Step 3: Strong opioids with or without non-opioids

Answer

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

Question 5

Which chemotherapy agent is classified as an alkylating agent?

Accepted Answer

Cyclophosphamide

Answer

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

ANCC - American Nurses Credentialing Center Practice Test

ANCC - American Nurses Credentialing Center Practice Test

ANCC Oncology Nursing Certification