Question

A child is receiving fluorouracil as part of a chemotherapy protocol. Which of the following would be most important for the nurse to include in the child's plan of care?

A) Monitoring for visual changes
B) Maintaining adequate hydration
C) Using prescribed eye drops to prevent conjunctivitis
D) Avoiding administration with food or meals

Answer 1

The key aspect in a child's plan of care during fluorouracil chemotherapy is to ensure they maintain adequate hydration, which helps manage the side effects of treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important aspect to include in the child's plan of care when receiving fluorouracil as part of chemotherapy is maintaining adequate hydration. Chemotherapy drugs can lead to a number of side effects due to their non-specific action, often affecting cells in the body with rapid turnover like those in the gastrointestinal system. Ensuring the child stays well-hydrated is crucial to support their body's ability to manage the toxic effects of the chemotherapy, maintain renal function, and facilitate the elimination of the drug from the system.