Final answer:
The nurse's priority action when a patient reports burning and numbness in his feet should be to assess for autonomic neuropathy and document the complaint, as it may indicate peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
A patient scheduled to receive a fourth cycle of paclitaxel and cisplatin reports burning and numbness in his feet. The nurse's priority action in this situation should be to assess for autonomic neuropathy. This symptom could be indicative of peripheral neuropathy, a common side effect of chemotherapy, particularly with agents like paclitaxel and cisplatin. The nurse should perform a thorough assessment which includes the extent of sensory loss, reflexes, and motor function. Based on the findings, the healthcare team can determine the necessity to modify the chemotherapy regimen, manage symptoms, or refer to a specialist for further evaluation. Continuing with the administration of chemotherapy without addressing these symptoms could lead to further nerve damage. It is also important to document the patient's complaint in the medical record for ongoing monitoring and intervention.