Cancer I Review

The individual who has recently had an ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle biopsy of the liver must be monitored closely for symptoms of:

• Spinal Cord Compression

• Hematemesis

• Hemorrhage

• Headache

Mr. Jones reports frequent episodes of hematuria. His doctor assesses him for possible bladder cancer. Of the following tests, which is the most definitive to diagnose bladder cancer?

• Urine cytology

• Cystoscopy with biopsy

• Intravenous pyelogram

• CT scan

Rosa is about to receive radiation therapy for the first time. She says, "I have such sensitive skin. I'm worried about the effect radiation could have on my skin." The best advice you can give Rosa is:

• Gently wash skin with lukewarm water and mild soap.

• Use a razor to shave your treatment area.

• Wear sunblock products with at least SPF 15

• Use any type of lotion on the treatment area to reduce dry skin.

After administration of a vesicant, you notice swelling and redness at the injection site. The patient complains of burning. You determine there is a lack of blood return. These clues alert you that the patient may be experiencing:

• Blood clot

• Erythema

• Extravasation

• Decreased perfusion

Poorly treated or unrelieved pain is a common problem for the individual with cancer. A common reason for this is which of the following: (Select all that apply)

• Access to health care and appropriate treatment

• Reluctance of patients to report pain related to addiction concerns

• Failure of the care provider to routinely assess pain

• Difficulty controlling cancer pain and expensive medications

A client has lung cancer which has metastasized to her bones. She recently completed 3 weeks of radiation to her thoracic spine. She phones you with complaints of dropping things and radiating back pain. Which of the following best describes her symptoms?

• Symptoms are due to delayed effects of radiation.

• Symptoms are related to metastatic disease of the bone and are normal.

• Symptoms indicate spinal cord compression.

• Symptoms are related to metastatic disease of the brain.

What is the most appropriate action for a patient with new onset spinal cord compression?

• See physician immediately for evaluation

• Take an analgesic for apin

• Take it easy as the pain will improve in a few weeks

• Be fitted for a spinal brace due to weakening of the spine

What is the single most important measure to prevent infection when caring for a neutropenic patient?

• Initiating broad spectrum antibiotic use

• Providing optimal nutrition

• Washing hands meticulously

• Restricting the presence of live flowers and plants

When assessing clients for early signs of cancer, which of the following findings reported to the nurse would indicate priority for follow-up?

• Bowel movements 2 times/day for the past five years

• Completing routine breast exams

• Lingering cough

• Stools that are periodically blood-streaked

An adult woman is recovering from a mastectomy for breast cancer. She appears depressed and is frequently tearful when she is alone. The nurse's approach should be based on which of these understandings:

• Clients need a supportive person to help them grieve.

• The nurse should explain that breast tissue is not needed.

• The client's family should only provide the support needed.

• The client should focus on the cure not loss of her breast.