What should a nurse monitor in a patient receiving cytoxic chemotherapy like cyclophosphamide?

Monitoring a complete blood count (CBC) in a patient receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy, such as cyclophosphamide, is crucial due to the drug's effects on the bone marrow. Cyclophosphamide, like other chemotherapy agents, can lead to myelosuppression, which can result in a decrease in the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These components of the blood are essential for carrying oxygen, fighting infection, and clotting blood, respectively.

By keeping a close watch on the CBC, the nurse can assess for conditions such as anemia (low red blood cells), neutropenia (low white blood cells), and thrombocytopenia (low platelets). This monitoring is essential to identify complications early, allowing for timely interventions such as transfusions, growth factor administration, or dose adjustments in chemotherapy.

In contrast, while monitoring fluid retention, electrolyte levels, and urine output are important aspects of patient care, they are not as directly impacted by the specific action of cytotoxic agents like cyclophosphamide as the complete blood count is. Therefore, prioritizing the CBC provides the most pertinent information regarding the patient's response to treatment and potential complications.