COCN Chemotherapy Administration and Safety

Question 1

What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling chemotherapy agents?

Accepted Answer

Double chemotherapy-rated gloves, gown, face shield, and closed-front gown

Answer

OSHA and ONS guidelines require double chemotherapy-tested gloves, a lint-free disposable gown, eye/face protection, and respiratory protection when indicated for safe handling of hazardous drugs.

Question 2

What is extravasation in the context of chemotherapy administration?

Accepted Answer

Leakage of a vesicant drug from the vein into surrounding tissue

Answer

Extravasation occurs when a chemotherapy agent, particularly a vesicant, leaks from the vein into surrounding subcutaneous tissue, potentially causing severe tissue damage, necrosis, and functional impairment.

Question 3

What is the nadir period in chemotherapy treatment?

Accepted Answer

The point at which blood cell counts reach their lowest level after treatment

Answer

The nadir is the point of lowest blood cell counts (particularly neutrophils and platelets) following chemotherapy, typically occurring 7-14 days after treatment, when patients are most vulnerable to infection and bleeding.

Question 4

What is the purpose of premedication before chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

To prevent or reduce side effects such as nausea, allergic reactions, and hypersensitivity

Answer

Premedications (antiemetics, corticosteroids, antihistamines, antipyretics) are given before chemotherapy to prevent or minimize common side effects like nausea, vomiting, and hypersensitivity reactions.

Question 5

Which chemotherapy-related emergency requires immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Anaphylaxis during infusion

Answer

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction that requires immediate cessation of the infusion, administration of epinephrine, and emergency supportive care including airway management.

COCN Test Practice Test

COCN Test Practice Test

COCN Chemotherapy Administration and Safety