Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test

What is one of the main reasons that patients with cancer are at an increased risk for septic complications?

1. Their higher risk for tissue necrosis

2. Their higher risk for developing infections

3. Their lower body temperature

4. Their reduced appetite

The correct answer is: Their higher risk for developing infections

Patients with cancer are at an increased risk for septic complications largely due to their higher risk for developing infections. This heightened susceptibility is primarily attributed to several factors associated with cancer itself and its treatment. Cancer can compromise the immune system, particularly in patients undergoing therapies such as chemotherapy or radiation. These treatments can lead to neutropenia, which is a reduced number of neutrophils in the blood, making the body less equipped to fight off infections. Additionally, certain cancers, especially hematologic malignancies, can inherently affect the bone marrow's ability to produce adequate immune cells. Moreover, patients with cancer often have invasive procedures, such as central line placement, surgeries, or bone marrow biopsies, which can serve as entry points for pathogens. This combination of immune compromise and exposure to potential infection routes places cancer patients at a significantly increased risk for sepsis, making their management crucial during oncologic care.