Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

What effect does chemotherapy have on red and white blood cell counts?

1. It increases both counts significantly.

2. It does not affect the counts.

3. It pushes out red blood cells and raises white blood cell counts.

4. It lowers both counts equally.

The correct answer is: It pushes out red blood cells and raises white blood cell counts.

The correct answer indicates that chemotherapy can lead to a disruption in the production of blood cells, specifically impacting red and white blood cell counts. Chemotherapy primarily targets rapidly dividing cells, which includes cancer cells but also affects normal cells in the bone marrow that are responsible for producing blood cells. As a result, red blood cell counts can decrease due to the myelosuppressive effects of chemotherapy, leading to anemia. Simultaneously, the treatment may cause a reduction in white blood cell counts, particularly neutrophils, leading to an increased risk of infections. Therefore, while the statement in the answer suggests an increase in white blood cell counts, this is generally not accurate in the context of standard chemotherapy; instead, the counts typically decrease. This understanding highlights the need for monitoring lab values during chemotherapy treatment and demonstrates the potential risks and side effects related to blood cell production. In practice, healthcare providers will often assess patients' blood counts regularly to manage these complications effectively.