During the administration of etoposide, the patient should be closely monitored for:

• A. fever and rigors
• B. hypertension
• C. hypotension
• D. hyperglycemia

Answer: (C)

Infusion-related hypotension is a key safety concern with IV etoposide. This drug can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure during administration, sometimes due to a hypersensitivity-like reaction or rapid infusion. Because of this, monitoring vital signs closely throughout the infusion helps catch a BP drop early and allows prompt management.

If hypotension occurs, stop the infusion, position the patient safely (often with legs elevated if not contraindicated), and reassess. Treat with IV fluids and other supportive measures as needed, then resume at a slower rate or discontinue per protocol. Hypertension, fever with rigors, or hyperglycemia are not the typical immediate monitoring focus during the actual infusion, though fever can occur with some reactions and should be evaluated separately.