NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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Ace your North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) with our comprehensive practice test. Features include interactive flashcards, multiple-choice questions, with detailed hints and explanations. Fast-track your pharmacy career today!

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What is the lowest point that WBCs and platelets reach after chemotherapy known as?

Apex
Baseline
Nadir
Threshold

The correct answer is: Nadir

During chemotherapy, cancer cells are killed by drugs, which can also damage healthier cells, resulting in a decrease in white blood cells and platelets. These cells maintain and protect our body against infections and facilitate clotting. The lowest point, or the lowest number of these cells in the body, is known as the "nadir." This is a critical time for patients as they are more susceptible to infections and bleeding due to the low count. Option A, the "apex," is the highest point on a curve and not the correct term for the lowest point. Option B, the "baseline," refers to the starting point or normal level of white blood cells and platelets, rather than the lowest point after chemotherapy. Option D, the "threshold," is a point that marks a limit or boundary, which is not applicable in this situation.