Before administering epoetin to a client with chemotherapy-induced anemia, what should the nurse do?

Before administering epoetin, it is essential for the nurse to review the client's hemoglobin (Hgb) level prior to administration. Epoetin is a synthetic form of erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. Knowing the Hgb level is crucial because epoetin is typically indicated for clients with a low Hgb level, particularly in the context of chemotherapy-induced anemia.

Administering epoetin when the Hgb level is still within a normal range may not provide any benefit and could increase the risk of complications such as hypertension and thromboembolic events. Furthermore, the appropriate use of this medication aligns with the guidelines for managing anemia in patients undergoing chemotherapy, ensuring that the treatment is both effective and safe.

It is important for nurses to collect this information to make informed clinical decisions and to provide the most appropriate care for their patients. Thus, verifying the Hgb level before administering the medication is a critical step in ensuring positive patient outcomes.