Lung Cancer Flashcards
describe lung cancer
- neoplasm occurring in the lung
- leading cause of cancer deaths in US
- POOR PROGNOSIS
prevalence of lung cancer in smokers
smoking causes 80-90% of all lung cancers
when does lung cancer occur
years after exposure
common in ages 50-60 y/o
what can increase risk
asbestos and radioactive dust
s/s of lung cancer
- persistent dry, hacking cough (early sign)
- productive cough as progresses
- hoarseness
- dyspnea
- hemoptysis (rust/purulent sputum)
- pain in chest area
- diminished breath sounds (some wheezing)
- abnormal chest radiograph
- positive sputum for cytology and pleural fluids
interventions for lung cancer
- similar to COPD
- place client in semi fowlers (15-45%)
- teach pursed lip breathing (increases gas exchange)
- teach relaxation techniques (anxiety d/t dyspnea)
- administer O2 if inidcated
- allay anxiety
- decrease pain to manageable level with analgesics
describe thoracotomy
- clients with resectable tumor
- however detection often occurs so late that tumor is NOT localized and not amendable to resection
describe pneumonectomy
- removal of entire lung
- position client on operative side or back
- chest tubes NOT used
describe lobectomy and segmental resection
- position on back
- chest tubes ARE used (ensure tubing is not kinked or obstructed)
when large tumors fill entire lobe of lung…
- when removed, large spaces are left
- chest tubes NOT used as fluid that fills mediastinal cavity helps prevent shift of chest organs to space
if chest tube or drainage system breaks…
- place distal end of chest tube connection in a sterile water container at a 2 cm level as an emerging water seal
- do NOT clamp
if chest tube is dislodged…
- cover with a dry sterile dressing taped on 3 sides (allows air to escape and prevent tension pneumothorax)
- notify HCP
what to remember about chest tubes
- tubing coiled below chest level
- water seal and suction at appropriate level
- monitor fluid drainage and mark time of measurement
- observe for bubbling and tidaling
- monitor pt status
- check drainage system position
- encourage deep breathing
- do NOT empty collection container, REPLACE if full
- do not strip, or milk chest tubes
- NOT clamped
- occlusive drainage
things to remember if radiation therapy
- provide skin care
- instruct pt not to wash off lines drawn by radiologist
- wear soft cotton garments only
- AVOID providers and creams on radiation site
fluctuations occur if….
-NO external suctioning
-good indicator that system is intact
-move upward with inspiration and downward with expiration
(fluctuations= tidaling)
