cancer Flashcards
cancer treatment considerations
biopsy, neutropenic precautions, hospice, care for chemo, internal radiation, chemotherapy
biopsy
diagnostic test
only a biopsy can confirm cancer diagnosis
excision
incision (large tumors where parts are removed for analysis)
needle biopsy (tissue samples from suspicious masses are aspirated)
neutropenic precautions
no flowers
no fresh fruit
no raw veggies
wear mask, gown, gloves
avoid crowds
keep door closed
disposable equipment used
hospice
can be done at home
anyone with a life expectancy of six months or less
regardless of ability to pay
chemotherapy care
systemic intervention
antineoplastics (kills cancer cells)
primary, adjuvant, or neoadjuvant
given VAD (larger veins in chest, implanted in chest, dressing changed every 48 hours) or a PICC
monitor neutrophils
chemotherapy side effects
finger numbness, bone marrow suppression (monitor for 100 days), NV, anorexia, GI disturbance, alopecia, mucositis (culture the lesions), stomatitis, loss of libido, impotence
internal radiation
brachytherapy, sealed source, unsealed source
device inside patient can emit radiation (radioactive)
brachytherapy
a device placed inside patient so the radiation comes in direct, continuous contact with tumor for specified amount of time
patient is radioactive while device is in them and on strict bedrest with bathroom privileges, low residue diet, antidiarrheal agents, given a urinary catheter
internal radiation side effects
systemic nausea fatigue myelosuppression (thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, anemia)
localized (specified to radiated area): stomatitis dysgeusia (altered taste sensation), xerostomia (dry mouth)
pt teaching/ nursing care radiation
wash radiated area gently with water and mild soap
avoid shaving with razors avoid exposure to sun or heat
use a soft toothbrush
normal saline rinses instead of commercial mouthwash
cancer excision surgery
tumor is small and excised
removed entirely and sent to a lab for examination
prophylactic surgery
preventative measure
palliative surgery
done when a cure is not possible to improve quality of life
reconstructive surgery
done to obtain a more desired cosmetic effect