A patient taking a combination of antineoplastic agents develops stomatitis. Nursing care should include actions to prevent which problem?
A Inadequate nutritional intake.
B Dental caries.
C Diarrhea.
D Gingival hyperplasia.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A) Inadequate nutritional intake.
Explanation:
Stomatitis, an inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, is a common side effect of antineoplastic agents (chemotherapy drugs). This condition can significantly impact a patient’s ability to eat and maintain proper nutrition. Effective nursing care for a patient with stomatitis should focus on preventing inadequate nutritional intake due to the following reasons:
- Pain and Discomfort: Stomatitis often causes significant pain and discomfort, making it difficult for patients to chew and swallow food. This discomfort can lead to decreased food intake as the patient may avoid eating to prevent pain. As a result, they may not consume enough calories and nutrients, leading to inadequate nutritional intake.
- Mucosal Ulceration: The presence of sores and ulcers in the mouth can further complicate eating. These ulcers can be sensitive to certain foods, particularly acidic, spicy, or hard foods, which can exacerbate the pain and make eating even more challenging.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake can quickly lead to nutritional deficiencies, which can impair the body’s ability to heal and recover. Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining immune function and overall health, especially during cancer treatment.
- Strategies for Prevention: Nursing interventions should include recommending soft, bland, and non-irritating foods, offering smaller, more frequent meals, and ensuring proper hydration. Patients should also be encouraged to use oral care products designed to soothe the mucous membranes, such as mouth rinses that contain anesthetics or anti-inflammatory agents. Monitoring weight and dietary intake closely can help identify and address any issues early.
Other Options:
- B) Dental caries: While stomatitis does increase the risk of oral infections, it is not directly associated with an increased risk of dental caries. Good oral hygiene can help mitigate this risk.
- C) Diarrhea: Although some antineoplastic agents cause gastrointestinal issues, stomatitis is primarily related to oral mucosal inflammation rather than diarrhea.
- D) Gingival hyperplasia: Gingival hyperplasia is more commonly associated with certain medications like phenytoin rather than antineoplastic agents.
In summary, managing stomatitis involves a proactive approach to nutrition to ensure that the patient maintains adequate caloric and nutrient intake, which is essential for overall health and recovery during cancer treatment.