A child diagnosed with a Wilms tumor is prescribed chemotherapy. Which laboratory test will the nurse monitor prior to administering the chemotherapy to determine the child's infection-fighting capability?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is a laboratory test that measures the number of white blood cells (neutrophils) that are capable of fighting infections. Chemotherapy can lower the ANC, increasing the risk of infection. Monitoring the ANC before administering chemotherapy can help ensure the child's infection-fighting capability is adequate. Hemoglobin, RBC count, and platelets are not accurate indicators of infection-fighting capability.

A Child Diagnosed with a Wilms Tumor Is Prescribed Chemotherapy