The chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorourcacil (5-FU) is ordered for a client as an adjunct measure to...

5-FU is an antieoplastic, antimetabolic drug that inhibits DNA synthesis and interferes with cell replication. It is given intravenously and acts systemically. It affects all rapidly growing cells,both malignant and normal. It is used as adjuvant therapy for treating cancer of the colon, rectum, stomach, breast, and pancreas. This drug has many side effects, including bone marrow depression, anorexia, stomatitis, nausea, and vomiting.Physiological Adaptation