Question

The client receives chemotherapy as therapy for cancer. The physician orders epoetin alfa (Procrit) subcutaneously. The client asks the nurse if this drug is also chemotherapy. What is the best response by the nurse?

1. "No, but it works with your chemotherapy to make it more effective."
2. "No, this drug helps to counteract the nausea and vomiting caused by your chemotherapy."
3. "No, it will stimulate your immune system to help you battle the cancer."
4. "No, this drug will help prevent anemia that can be caused by your chemotherapy."

Answer 1

The nurse's best response is that epoetin alfa is not chemotherapy but a medication that helps prevent anemia by stimulating red blood cell production in the bone marrow, countering one of the side effects of chemotherapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the client receiving chemotherapy for cancer treatment asks if epoetin alfa (Procrit) is also chemotherapy, the best response by the nurse would be response number 4. Epoetin alfa is not a chemotherapeutic agent; instead, it is a synthetic form of EPO (erythropoietin), which helps to mitigate one of the side effects of chemotherapy—anemia. Anemia can result from chemotherapy due to its effect on rapidly dividing cells, which include not only cancer cells but also cells in the bone marrow that produce red blood cells (RBCs). By stimulating RBC production in the bone marrow, epoetin alfa helps to counteract anemia and improve the patient's red blood cell count and oxygen levels, which are crucial for maintaining energy and overall well-being during cancer treatment.