OCN Symptom Management and Palliative Care

Question 1

According to the WHO analgesic ladder, what class of medication is used at Step 3 for severe cancer pain?

Accepted Answer

Strong opioids (e.g., morphine)

Answer

Non-opioid analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen)

Answer

Weak opioids (e.g., codeine)

Answer

Adjuvant analgesics only

Question 2

A cancer patient reports nausea that is worse with movement and relieved by staying still. Which antiemetic class best targets this type of nausea?

Accepted Answer

Antihistamines/anticholinergics

Answer

5-HT3 antagonists

Answer

Dopamine antagonists

Answer

Corticosteroids

Question 3

Which non-pharmacologic intervention is evidence-based for managing cancer-related fatigue?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic exercise

Answer

Prolonged bed rest

Answer

High-dose vitamin C supplementation

Answer

Strict caloric restriction

Question 4

What is the primary goal of palliative care in oncology?

Accepted Answer

To improve quality of life by managing symptoms and psychosocial needs

Answer

To provide curative treatment

Answer

To hasten death in terminal patients

Answer

To replace all active cancer treatment

Question 5

A patient on long-term opioid therapy reports no bowel movement in 4 days. The most appropriate first intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Add a stimulant laxative such as senna

Answer

Discontinue the opioid immediately

Answer

Recommend increased dietary fiber only

Answer

Administer an enema without further assessment

Question 6

Which scale is most commonly used in clinical practice to assess cancer pain intensity?

Accepted Answer

Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) 0–10

Answer

Glasgow Coma Scale

Answer

Karnofsky Performance Status

Answer

ECOG Performance Status