Colon Cancer

Question 1

What are the major risk factors of colon cancer?

Answer 1

Familial adenomatous polyposis (polyps), diet, age, genetics, inflammatory bowel diseases

Question 2

What are some manifestations of colon cancer?

Answer 2

Rectal bleeding (high=flank; low=tarry), anemia s/s, change in bowel habits like diarrhea/constipation or ribbon/flat-like stools, wt loss, anorexia, rectal mass, palpable abd, pain

Question 3

What are some important diagnostic tests?

Answer 3

Colonoscopy, CEA levels, fecal occult blood test, barium enema

Question 4

What is the main treatment for colon cancer?

Answer 4

Surgical resection, chemotherapy, laser photocoagulation and colostomy

Question 5

What are the 2 main chemo drugs for colon cancer?

Answer 5

Fluorouracil and Leucovorin

Question 6

What is the major nursing management for colon cancer?

Answer 6

Elimination, skin care, sexuality, body image, and self-esteem