Chemotherapy administration safety, neutropenic precautions, and oncologic emergency recognition for the bedside nurse.
35 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is a vesicant chemotherapy drug?
- A drug that causes tissue damage or necrosis if it leaks into surrounding tissue
- What is the first nursing action if extravasation of a vesicant is suspected?
- Stop the infusion immediately
- What PPE is required when administering IV chemotherapy?
- Chemotherapy-rated gloves (often double gloved) and a disposable gown
- Why are closed-system transfer devices (CSTDs) used with chemotherapy?
- To prevent aerosolization and leakage of the hazardous drug during preparation and administration
- How long after chemotherapy administration should body fluid precautions continue?
- 48 hours
- Which staff members should avoid handling chemotherapy drugs?
- Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- How many nurses must independently verify a chemotherapy order before administration?
- Two nurses
- What type of IV access is preferred for administering vesicant chemotherapy?
- A central venous line
- What should be readily available wherever chemotherapy is administered?
- A chemotherapy spill kit
- How should chemotherapy waste be disposed of?
- In a designated hazardous or cytotoxic waste container
- What must the nurse confirm before starting a vesicant chemotherapy infusion?
- That the IV is patent with a good blood return
- Do oral chemotherapy pills require special handling precautions?
- Yes, gloves are required and the pills should not be crushed or split
- What lab value defines neutropenia?
- Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) below 1000/mm3
- What ANC defines severe neutropenia?
- Below 500/mm3
- What is the single most important intervention to prevent infection in a neutropenic patient?
- Hand hygiene