CPHON Chemotherapy Administration and Safety 2

Question 1

Which chemotherapy class works by cross-linking DNA strands to prevent cell replication?

Accepted Answer

Alkylating agents

Answer

Alkylating agents attach alkyl groups to DNA, causing cross-links that prevent strand separation and halt replication.

Question 2

When administering L-asparaginase, the nurse's PRIORITY assessment is monitoring for:

Accepted Answer

Anaphylaxis

Answer

L-asparaginase is a protein derived from bacteria and carries a significant risk of hypersensitivity or anaphylactic reactions.

Question 3

A pediatric patient is receiving continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil. Which assessment finding warrants immediate notification of the provider?

Accepted Answer

Chest pain and cardiac arrhythmia

Answer

5-fluorouracil can cause coronary vasospasm and cardiotoxicity, making chest pain and arrhythmias a medical emergency.

Question 4

What is the recommended maximum cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin in pediatric patients to minimize cardiotoxicity?

Accepted Answer

450–550 mg/m²

Answer

The cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin is generally capped at 450–550 mg/m² to reduce the risk of cardiomyopathy.

Question 5

A child is prescribed bleomycin as part of a lymphoma protocol. Which baseline test is MOST important before starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary function tests

Answer

Bleomycin causes pulmonary fibrosis; baseline pulmonary function tests help detect early lung toxicity during treatment.

CPHON Exam Practice Test