Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

Which adverse effect is commonly linked with chemotherapy treatment?

1. Improved quality of life

2. Myelosuppression

3. Heightened stamina

4. Better concentration

The correct answer is: Myelosuppression

Myelosuppression is a commonly recognized adverse effect associated with chemotherapy treatment. This condition occurs because chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which include not only cancerous cells but also healthy cells in the bone marrow. The result is a decrease in the production of blood cells, leading to a variety of complications such as anemia, increased susceptibility to infections (due to a low white blood cell count), and bleeding or bruising (due to a low platelet count). Understanding myelosuppression is vital for healthcare professionals, as it necessitates careful monitoring of blood counts during treatment and may require interventions such as growth factor support or dose modification to manage the adverse effects effectively. In contrast, the other options listed do not represent typical outcomes of chemotherapy; rather, they reflect positive aspects of health that chemotherapy does not promote.