Fundamentals of Nursing Comprehensive Study Guide:100
Questions & Answers
Oncology and Cancer Nursing
1. What is the desired action of a biologic response modifier (BRM) colony-
stimulating drug?
o A) Destruction of malignant cells
o B) Enhanced recovery of bone marrow
o C) Reduction of tumor size
o D) Prevention of metastasis
o Correct Answer: B
o Rationale: These drugs are specifically used to help the bone marrow
recover after treatments that may suppress it.
2. A patient with high-grade lymphoma presents with muscle weakness,
tetany, and hyperkalemia. Which condition does the nurse suspect?
o A) Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)
o B) Hypercalcemia of malignancy
o C) Septic shock
o D) Disseminated intravascular coagulation
o Correct Answer: A
, o Rationale: TLS is characterized by a rapid release of intracellular
contents, leading to hyperkalemia, hyperuricemia, and symptoms like
tetany and weakness.
3. What is the most appropriate teaching for a patient with chemotherapy-
induced thrombocytopenia?
o A) Use a firm toothbrush
o B) Do not take aspirin for a headache
o C) Increase intake of raw vegetables
o D) Shave with a manual razor
o Correct Answer: B
o Rationale: Aspirin interferes with platelet function, which is
dangerous for a patient with a low platelet count
(thrombocytopenia).
4. Which instruction should be included in a fatigue management plan for a
radiation patient?
o A) Complete all heavy tasks in the morning
o B) Prioritize activities and alternate rest with periods of activity
o C) Avoid all physical activity until treatment is over
o D) Sleep at least 12 hours a day
o Correct Answer: B
, o Rationale: Energy conservation through prioritization and scheduled
rest helps manage the chronic fatigue associated with radiation.
5. How should a nurse prepare for an 8-year-old twin visit for a mother in
sealed-source radiation isolation?
o A) Allow the children to sit at the bedside for 10 minutes
o B) Provide lead aprons for the children
o C) Put chairs in the hall for "long-distance" visitation
o D) Prohibit the visit entirely
o Correct Answer: C
o Rationale: Distance is a key factor in radiation safety; keeping visitors
at a distance minimizes their exposure.
6. Which of the following are characteristics of malignant neoplasms? (Select
all that apply)
o A) Disorganization
o B) Altered DNA
o C) Invasion of nearby organs
o D) Travel through body fluid
o Correct Answer: A, B, C, D
o Rationale: Unlike benign growths, malignant tumors are
disorganized, have mutated DNA, and possess the ability to invade
and metastasize via blood or lymph.
, 7. Why are benign growths generally not life-threatening?
o A) They grow very slowly
o B) They are surrounded by fibrous tissue that prevents spread
o C) They do not contain living cells
o D) They only occur in non-vital organs
o Correct Answer: B
o Rationale: Encapsulation by fibrous tissue prevents benign tumors
from invading surrounding tissues or spreading to distant sites.
8. Which person has the greatest risk for developing cancer?
o A) A 20-year-old office worker
o B) A 45-year-old farmer who has worked outdoors since age 12
o C) A 30-year-old teacher
o D) A 50-year-old librarian
o Correct Answer: B
o Rationale: Long-term exposure to UV radiation (sunlight) is a
significant risk factor for skin cancers.
9. What situation could delay a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test?
o A) Eating a high-fat meal
o B) A recent urinary tract infection (UTI)
o C) Vigorous exercise