Final answer:
Patients on cyclophosphamide should drink plenty of fluids to prevent hemorrhagic cystitis, a condition that causes bladder irritation and bleeding. Adequate hydration helps to dilute the urine and minimize the contact of toxic metabolites with the bladder lining, thereby reducing the risk of kidney damage and other complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient receiving cyclophosphamide should be advised by the nurse to drink plenty of fluids to prevent hemorrhagic cystitis, a condition that can cause bladder irritation and bleeding. Cyclophosphamide is a chemotherapy agent that can lead to the accumulation of toxic metabolites in the bladder, which in turn can cause this complication. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended that patients stay well-hydrated to dilute the urine and encourage frequent urination, thereby reducing the concentration and contact time of toxic substances with the bladder lining.
Prevention strategies to reduce the excretory load on the kidneys further support the importance of hydration. Drinking enough water to produce 2 to 2.5 liters of urine per day is essential, along with dietary modifications such as a diet low in protein, nitrogen, and sodium intake. This practice decreases the potential for kidney damage and related complications that may arise with cyclophosphamide treatment.