Cellular Regulation KA

Which term describes a tumor that does not invade surrounding tissue or metastasize?

• Malignant

• Benign

• Carcinoma

• Metastatic

Answer explanation

A benign tumor is non-cancerous, meaning it does not invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body, unlike malignant tumors which are cancerous and can metastasize.

Which characteristic is most associated with malignant cells?

• Controlled growth

• Apoptosis (programmed cell death)

• Anaplasia (loss of differentiation)

• Encapsulation

Answer explanation

Anaplasia, or loss of differentiation, is a hallmark of malignant cells, indicating they have lost their specialized functions and structures. This characteristic is associated with uncontrolled growth and aggressive behavior in tumors.

Which risk factor is most strongly associated with cervical cancer?

• Low fiber diet

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

• Family history

• Obesity

Answer explanation

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most significant risk factor for cervical cancer, as it is responsible for the majority of cases. Other factors like diet and obesity have less direct links to the disease.

A client receiving chemotherapy reports tingling and numbness in the hands and feet. What adverse effect is this?

• Ototoxicity

• Cardiotoxicity

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Nephrotoxicity

Answer explanation

The tingling and numbness in the hands and feet are indicative of peripheral neuropathy, a common adverse effect of certain chemotherapy agents, affecting the nerves in the extremities.

Which laboratory finding is most concerning in a client receiving chemotherapy?

• Hemoglobin 13.5 g/dL

• WBC 1,200/mm³

• Platelets 180,000/mm³

• Hematocrit 40%

Answer explanation

The most concerning laboratory finding in a client receiving chemotherapy is a WBC count of 1,200/mm³, indicating severe leukopenia and increased risk of infection. Other values are within normal limits.

Which statement by a client indicates understanding of neutropenic precautions?

• I should eat fresh fruits and vegetables daily.

• I will avoid crowded public places.

• I can stop washing my hands so often.

• I should get all my vaccines now.

Answer explanation

The correct statement, 'I will avoid crowded public places,' shows understanding of neutropenic precautions, which aim to reduce infection risk by minimizing exposure to potential pathogens in crowded environments.

Which type of radiation therapy delivers radiation internally at the tumor site?

• External beam radiation

• Brachytherapy

• Stereotactic radiosurgery

• Proton therapy

Answer explanation

Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy that involves placing radioactive material directly inside or near the tumor, delivering targeted radiation internally at the tumor site.

Which cancer is most strongly linked to prolonged sun exposure?

• Leukemia

• Basal cell carcinoma

• Colon cancer

• Prostate cancer

Answer explanation

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer and is strongly linked to prolonged sun exposure, making it the correct answer. Other cancers listed are not primarily associated with UV exposure.

A nurse teaches a client undergoing radiation therapy about skin care. Which statement shows correct understanding?

• I should use scented lotions on the treated area.

• I should avoid exposing the area to the sun.

• I can scrub the area with a washcloth daily.

• I should apply heating pads for comfort.

Answer explanation

The correct statement is 'I should avoid exposing the area to the sun.' Sun exposure can worsen skin reactions from radiation therapy, making this an important precaution for skin care during treatment.

What is the primary purpose of tumor markers (e.g., PSA, CA-125)?

• To diagnose cancer definitively

• To determine cancer staging

• To monitor treatment effectiveness

• To rule out malignancy

Answer explanation

Tumor markers like PSA and CA-125 are primarily used to monitor treatment effectiveness in cancer patients, helping to assess how well the treatment is working over time.