Oncology/Hematology Meds Flashcards

Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells and many other rapidly dividing cells which causes most of the side effects and adverse reactions.

1. neutropenia
2. thrombocytopenia

• nausea/vomiting
• diarrhea
• stomatitis
• alopecia (hair loss)

Neutropenic precautions - the client is at risk of getting an infection and needs to be in a private room:

• no fresh fruits or flowers in room
• fresh water for drinking
• avoid ill people
• meticulous hand hygiene and wear gloves
• no live vaccines
• avoid invasive procedures
• fruits and vegetables need to be washed and cooked before eating
• assess for signs and symptoms of infection - WBC count and temperature

Bleeding precautions:

• no straining
• no nail clippers
• use electric shaver
• no anticoagulants or antiplatelets meds
• limit invasive procedures
• assess platelets
• prevent falls

• replace fluids
• monitor fluids and electrolytes
• give antiemetics

• replace fluids
• monitor fluids and electrolytes
• give antidiarrheals
• avoid foods that are irritating such as caffeine and fiber

• provide oral hygiene
• avoid alcohol mouth wash
• administer nystatin

• get fitted for a wig
• wear head wraps
• provide gentle hair care

Hematopoietic agent

• to increase red blood cells
• to treat anemia with chronic renal failure, HIV, and chemotherapy

Monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit to evaluate effectiveness.

Vitamin supplement - to treat dietary anemia.

• take with vitamin C for better absorption (such as orange juice)
• teach that may cause constipation - encourage fluids/fiber/walking
• can cause stools to be dark and mask sign of blood
• if taking liquid, use straw as it may stain teeth

filgrastim

Stimulates production of neutrophils.