Question 1
The nurse is writing a plan of care for a patient receiving immune suppressants for leukemia. What would be an appropriate nursing diagnosis for this patient?
- A. Anxiety related to diagnosis and drug therapy
- B. Acute pain related to central nervous system (CNS), gastrointestinal (GI), and flu-like effects
- C. Risk for infection related to immune stimulation
- D. Imbalanced nutrition: More than body requirements
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Acute pain related to central nervous system (CNS), gastrointestinal (GI), and flu-like effects
The correct answer is B: Acute pain related to central nervous system (CNS), gastrointestinal (GI), and flu-like effects. This is the most appropriate nursing diagnosis because immune suppressants commonly cause side effects like pain in the CNS, GI disturbances, and flu-like symptoms. The priority is to address the patient's immediate discomfort and provide appropriate pain management. Choice A (Anxiety related to diagnosis and drug therapy) may be a valid concern for the patient, but addressing acute pain is more urgent in this case. Choice C (Risk for infection related to immune stimulation) is incorrect because immune suppressants actually increase the risk of infection due to decreased immune response. Choice D (Imbalanced nutrition: More than body requirements) is not the most relevant nursing diagnosis for a patient receiving immune suppressants. Pain management takes precedence over addressing nutrition concerns.