Question

The client with Wilms’ tumor is scheduled to receive vincristine (Oncovin). Which would the nurse include in the teaching plan? ? A. Report any kind of colon disturbances such as diarrhea ? B. Report neurological symptoms, such as tingling or numb fingers or hands ? C. Report any urinary symptoms, such as burning on urination ? D. Report any pulmonary symptoms, such as a hacking cough

Short answer

Answer: B. Report neurological symptoms, such as tingling or numb fingers or hands

Step-by-step solution

Understand Wilms' tumor

Wilms' tumor is a rare kidney cancer that primarily affects children. The treatment typically consists of a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy.

Know the drug vincristine (Oncovin)

Vincristine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer, including Wilms' tumor. It works by stopping the growth of cancer cells. Like any other chemotherapy drug, vincristine has potential side effects that patients need to be aware of and report to their healthcare provider.

Understand the side effects of vincristine

The main side effects of vincristine include: 1. Nerve damage (neuropathy): This can cause symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet. 2. Gastrointestinal side effects: including constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Constipation can sometimes become severe and lead to fecal impaction or bowel obstruction if not managed properly. 3. Bone marrow suppression: This can result in a decreased ability of the bone marrow to produce blood cells, leading to an increased risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding. 4. Hair loss (alopecia).

Evaluate the given options in the context of vincristine's side effects

Based on vincristine's side effects, let's examine each option in the question: A. Report any colon disturbances such as diarrhea: Diarrhea is not a common side effect of vincristine; rather, constipation is more common. However, any gastrointestinal issues should be reported to the healthcare provider. B. Report neurological symptoms, such as tingling or numb fingers or hands: This option corresponds to the possible neuropathy side effect of vincristine and should be reported to the healthcare provider. C. Report any urinary symptoms, such as burning on urination: This option is not specifically related to vincristine's side effects, but it is advisable for the patient to report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider. D. Report any pulmonary symptoms, such as a hacking cough: This option is not directly related to vincristine's side effects.

Identify the correct answer

Based on the side effects of vincristine and the given options, the correct answer is: ? B. Report neurological symptoms, such as tingling or numb fingers or hands This is the most appropriate symptom for the nurse to include in the teaching plan, as it is directly related to vincristine's possible side effect of neuropathy.