Oncology Nursing for the NCLEX: Cancer Treatment and Side Effects

Chemotherapy Safety

• Wear PPE when handling chemotherapy drugs
• Use closed-system transfer devices
• Pregnant nurses should NOT handle chemotherapy
• Client's body fluids are cytotoxic for 48 hours after treatment

Common Side Effects

• Bone marrow suppression: Monitor CBC - neutropenia (<1,500), thrombocytopenia (<100,000), anemia
• Nausea/vomiting: Antiemetics 30 min before treatment
• Alopecia: Temporary - discuss wigs/scarves before treatment begins
• Mucositis: Soft diet, gentle oral care, avoid alcohol-based mouthwash
• Tumor lysis syndrome: Rapid cell death → hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia. Hydrate, allopurinol

Neutropenic Precautions (ANC <1,000)

• Private room, no fresh flowers or raw fruits/vegetables
• Strict hand hygiene, limit visitors
• No rectal temps or suppositories
• Report fever >100.4°F immediately

Review our Physiological study guide and Physiological mini exams.