What is the priority nursing action if a patient with colon cancer reports worsening diarrhea during chemotherapy?

Choice A reason: Recommending over-the-counter medications should only be done under the direct guidance of the oncologist. Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea can be severe and may indicate significant mucosal damage or infection. Self-treating without professional monitoring can mask worsening symptoms and delay necessary clinical interventions or dose adjustments in the chemotherapy regimen. Choice B reason: Increasing fiber intake is generally not recommended during an acute episode of diarrhea, especially chemotherapy-induced diarrhea. High-fiber foods can stimulate the gastrointestinal tract and increase the volume and frequency of stools, potentially worsening the patient's condition and increasing the risk of dehydration and perianal skin breakdown. Choice C reason: Monitoring fluid and electrolyte balance is the priority because chemotherapy-induced diarrhea can lead to rapid depletion of water, potassium, and sodium. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances (like hypokalemia) can cause cardiac arrhythmias and renal failure. Strict intake and output monitoring and laboratory assessments are essential for maintaining physiological stability. Choice D reason: While resting may help the patient cope with fatigue, instructing them to maintain bed rest does not address the physiological danger of the diarrhea itself. Bed rest also increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary complications, which are already higher in patients with active malignancy undergoing systemic treatment.