OCN Chemotherapy Administration 2

Question 1

Which chemotherapy drug requires leucovorin rescue to prevent life-threatening toxicity?

Accepted Answer

High-dose methotrexate

Answer

Leucovorin (folinic acid) rescue is used after high-dose methotrexate to protect normal cells from folate depletion toxicity.

Question 2

Doxorubicin has a cumulative lifetime dose limit primarily because of which toxicity?

Accepted Answer

Cardiomyopathy

Answer

Doxorubicin accumulates in cardiac tissue and can cause irreversible cardiomyopathy; the total lifetime dose is capped at 450–550 mg/m².

Question 3

What is the purpose of using a CVAD (central venous access device) for chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

To safely administer vesicants and reduce peripheral vein damage

Answer

CVADs provide reliable venous access for vesicant infusions, protecting peripheral veins and reducing extravasation risk.

Question 4

Before administering paclitaxel, the nurse should premedicate with which agents to prevent hypersensitivity reactions?

Accepted Answer

Corticosteroids, diphenhydramine, and an H2 blocker

Answer

Paclitaxel's Cremophor EL solvent causes hypersensitivity reactions; premedication with a steroid, antihistamine, and H2 blocker is required.

Question 5

Which chemotherapy class works by intercalating into DNA strands and inhibiting topoisomerase II?

Accepted Answer

Anthracyclines

Answer

Anthracyclines such as doxorubicin intercalate into DNA and inhibit topoisomerase II, preventing DNA replication.

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