A nurse is caring for a client who received chemotherapy the day before. Which of the following items requires the nurse to implement special handling precautions?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Water pitcher on client's bedside table: Water does not require special handling after chemotherapy. The nurse should ensure that the client has access to clean drinking water, but there are no special precautions for handling it. B. Client's urine in the bedside commode: Client's urine after chemotherapy requires special handling, as it may contain cytotoxic drugs or their metabolites for up to 48 hours. Proper precautions, such as wearing gloves and using appropriate disposal methods, are necessary to avoid exposure. C. Client's bed linens after use: Bed linens do not require special handling unless contaminated with bodily fluids such as urine or vomit that could contain chemotherapy drugs. Gloves should be worn, but no additional precautions are required unless the linens are contaminated. D. Food tray and utensils from client's breakfast: Food trays and utensils do not require special handling after chemotherapy unless they are contaminated with body fluids. Normal cleaning and sanitation practices are sufficient.