adult 1: colon + prostate cancer Flashcards
(27 cards)
What are early signs of colon cancer?
Fatigue and weight loss.
What are later signs of colon cancer?
Abdominal pain or tenderness, palpable mass, hepatomegaly, ascites, changes in bowel habits.
What symptoms are more common in left-sided colon cancer?
Hematochezia (blood in stool).
What symptoms are more common in right-sided colon cancer?
Diarrhea.
What is a common physical finding in advanced colon cancer?
Palpable abdominal mass.
What are key risk factors for colon cancer?
Poor diet, alcohol, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, IBS, family history, genetic predisposition.
What is the gold standard for colon cancer screening?
Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy.
When should colon cancer screening begin?
At age 45, repeated every 10 years if normal.
What is the purpose of surgery in colon cancer treatment?
To resect (remove) the cancerous tissue.
Why is chemotherapy used before colon cancer surgery?
To shrink the tumor and improve surgical outcomes.
What is the role of radiation in colon cancer?
To reduce tumor size and provide symptom relief.
What are important pre-op education points for colon cancer patients?
NPO orders, bowel prep, and possible ostomy education.
What are common nursing interventions post colon cancer surgery?
JP drain management, pain relief, ostomy teaching, dietary consult.
Who can assist patients in learning ostomy care?
A wound care RN.
What dietary concerns are important post-surgery?
Avoiding constipation or diarrhea.
What psychosocial intervention should nurses provide?
Encourage discussion of patient thoughts and feelings.
What are early symptoms of prostate cancer?
Typically no signs or symptoms in early stages.
What might indicate prostate cancer metastasis?
Pain in the lumbosacral area radiating to hips and legs, along with urinary symptoms.
What are risk factors for prostate cancer?
Male >50 years, Black ethnicity, family history, poor diet, obesity.
What is the purpose of a digital rectal exam (DRE)?
It’s used as a screening tool for prostate cancer.
What lab is used to help diagnose prostate cancer?
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.
What imaging tool helps visualize prostate abnormalities?
Transrectal ultrasound.
What are common nursing interventions for prostate cancer patients?
Pain relief, treatment education, emotional support, catheter care education, Kegel exercises, sexual function changes education.
What should patients know about IUC (indwelling urinary catheter) care?
Clean urethral meatus daily with soap and water, keep bag below bladder, and anchor catheter to thigh/abdomen.
