Question

A nurse on an oncology unit is preparing to administer doxorubicin

to a client who has breast cancer. Prior to beginning the infusion,
the nurse verifies the client'
current cumulative lifetime dose of the medication. For which of
the following reasons is this verification necessary?

(A) An excess amount of doxorubicin can lead to myelosuppression.
(B) Exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin might
cause extravasation.
(C) An excess amount of doxorubicin can lead to
cardiomyopathy.
(D) Exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin might
produce red tinged urine and sweat.

Answer 1

Prior to administering doxorubicin, the nurse verifies the cumulative lifetime dose to prevent the risk of cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition that can occur if the lifetime dose limit is exceeded.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is verifying the client's current cumulative lifetime dose of doxorubicin before administering the medication. This verification is crucial because exceeding the lifetime cumulative dose limit of doxorubicin can lead to cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition. While myelosuppression, extravasation, and discoloration of urine and sweat are also potential side effects of doxorubicin, the most critical concern that necessitates checking the cumulative dose is the risk of cardiomyopathy, which can be life-threatening.