CLINIC BASICS
Why is accurate weight measurement important at every oncology visit?
Weight changes may indicate fluid retention, malnutrition, or disease progression and guide care decisions
When cleaning a room after giving a hormone injections such as Lupron, what is your process?
Chemo-tested gloves, baby wipe first, sani wipe second – on all surfaces involved (tray, computer, etc.)
What is the Blood Pressure threshold when a retake should be done, and provider notified?
140/90
What is a port-a-cath?
A small device under the skin used for central intravenous access
What is one way you can support anxious patients?
Offer a warm blanket, conversation, alert the RN/provider seeing the patient, drink / snack
Name the first thing to confirm when bringing a patient back to the exam or CAD room
Patient identity (2 identifiers – Name / DOB)
Where do you dispose of contaminated gloves and injection packaging?
In yellow chemo waste containers
Why is it important to report abnormal vitals to the MD/APP/RN?
Abnormal vitals can delay chemo for safety, patient may be experiencing an acute event or side effect
True or False: MAs can access a port if trained and within scope.
True, in some states/facilities after training
If a patient says they feel dizzy, what do you do?
Stay with them, sit them down, and call for help
What kind of field are you preparing when doing a port draw?
STERILE
Why is it important to remove and dispose of PPE properly?
Improper removal can spread germs or trace hazardous drug contaminates. Safe removal and disposal reduces cross contamination risks.
What common lab values do MAs see that affect injection administration?
ANC, Platelets
Before accessing a port, what must you confirm?
Tip placement, and/or no ongoing issues
Why is HIPAA important? Is it a law?
To protect patient privacy; YES
Name one non-pharmacological way to help patients manage mild fatigue related to cancer and treatment
Encouraging short frequent walks, planned rest periods, good nutrition, etc.
A patient is 30 minutes late for their Neulasta injection, what do you do?
Attempt to call patient, notify charge nurse – make plans to ensure patient gets injection
If a patient has a fever, what should you do?
Bonus 20 pts: What do we call a fever?
Notify the RN or provider immediately
100.4 F or greater
After accessing a port, what must be confirmed before chemo can be administered by the RN?
Blood return
True or False: You can answer a family member’s medical questions without patient permission.
False
True or False: Medical Assistants can administer injections that end in -MAB.
DAILY DOUBLE (FOR 1000 POINTS):
What is the difference between Pegfilgrastim (Neulasta / Udenyca) and Filgrastim (Zarxio)?
Both are GCSF’s to stimulate WBCs (neutrophils) – Pegfilgrastim is given as part of chemotherapy cycle usually and has longer action time. Filgrastim is shorter acting, requires daily injections usually, and is often used as a ‘rescue’ drug for severe noted neutropenia in a patient not receiving pegfilgrastim.
True or False: Unintentional weight loss and loss of appetite in a cancer patient should always be reported to the nurse or provider
TRUE – these may be signs of progression, malnutrition, or treatment side effects that need prompt attention
Why is flushing important after port access?
To keep the port patent and prevent clots
What is your role during an emergency?
Get help, get dynamap / AED, stay with the patient if with them initially, assist the RN/MD, BLS as indicated, calling rapid response or ambulance