Which pairing of chemotherapy agent and monitoring is correct?

• A. Etoposide — monitor for hypotension.
• B. Anthracyclines — monitor for hypertension.
• C. Interleukin-2 — monitor for hypoglycemia.
• D. Asparaginase — monitor for calcium levels.

Answer: (A)

Matching the drug to the most relevant monitoring during administration is what this item tests. Etoposide can cause infusion-related reactions that may lead to sudden drops in blood pressure, so monitoring blood pressure closely during the IV infusion is the appropriate precaution. If hypotension occurs, adjustments to the infusion rate and supportive care are warranted.

In contrast, other agents have different primary monitoring focuses. Anthracyclines are notorious for dose-related heart muscle damage, so monitoring cardiac function (such as ejection fraction) is key, not blood pressure alone. Interleukin-2 can cause capillary leak with hypotension and edema, so BP monitoring is important, but hypoglycemia is not the typical concern. Asparaginase carries risks like pancreatitis and coagulopathy, so monitoring pancreatic enzymes and coagulation parameters is more relevant than calcium levels.