Reproductive Conditions Flashcards
Define: Pap smear
A sampling of cells from the cervix being examined for potential cancer
Define: Colposcopy
A visualization of the cervix
Define: Endometrial biopsy
A tissue sampling from the inner uterine lining
Define: Laparoscopy
A visualization of the pelvic organs
Define: D & C
A scraping of the inner uterine lining
What is the optimum time for a monthly breast exam?
At the end of each menstrual cycle (when breast tissue is holding the lease amount of fluid). Exams should be monthly beginning with adolescence. Early familiarization alerts the pt to any changes.
Why is an axilla exam part of a breast exam?
Lymph nodes under the arm connect with the breast. A lump in the axilla area may be a sign of abnormal growth in the breast. Examinations can reveal enlarged nodes.
What is the nursing responsibilities regarding a female pt for a pelvic exam?
Have the pt empty her bladder completely. Position her in dorsal lithotomy position, careful to provide privacy. Provide emotional support. Help the pt relax.
What instructions will you give a pt in preparation for a mammogram?
Remind the pt not to wear deodorant or talcum powder under her arms for the test. Explain that the discomfort will only last seconds.
What measures should be taken by a pt with fibrocystic disease? Why? Which is most important?
** Monthly self-breast exams. To detect any changes.** Try heat or cold packs for pain relief. Also can use mild anti-inflammatories. - Avoid caffeine. Caffeine is believed to cause overgrowth of tissue. - Wear a supportive bra. - Vitamin E supplements. In some pts, Vitamin E has helped to break down cystic tissue. - Regular physician follow-up and regular mammograms. To follow course of disease and detect changes.
Post-surgical teaching for a pt who has just had a modified radical mastectomy:
Arm elevation will assist in lymph drainage in the arm - advise pt to avoid carrying items in the affected arm or purse straps over the affected shoulder - No blood draws, blood pressure readings, or injections should be done on affected side - monitor injuries on affected side. Requires immediate attention. - swelling, bruising, and tingling should be reported to the physician at once. - Exercises for affected arm to aid in lessening of edema.
What would a sentinel node biopsy (done with breast surgeries) reveal?
Performed to see if there is evidence of spread of cancer cells by injecting dye into lymph system, dissecting out the first node that picks up the dye and seeing if it is positive for cancer cells.
How is cervical dysplasia treated?
A conization (surgical excision of cone-shaped section of abnormal tissue). Preserves child-bearing possibilities. Laser surgery, LEEP, cryosurgery to remove abnormal cells. Hysterectomy.
Explain the pathophysiology of endometriosis
Endometrial tissue abnormally implants itself on other pelvic structures. It continues to respond to monthly hormonal changes, resulting in bleeding outside of the uterus which leads to eventual scar tissue, formation of cysts and adhesions.
Define: amenorrhea
absence of menses
Define: menorrhagia and a possible cause
Menorrhea- excessively heavy menstrual flow during menses. May be caused by fibroids
Define: metrorrhagia
Bleeding between periods
Define: dysmenorrhea and 4 possible causes
Dysmenorrhea: Menstrual cramps. Possible causes: endometriosis, PID, PMS, or uterine displacement. Often the cause is unknown.
Menstrual bleeding after menopause can be a sign of…
Endometrial cancer
Describe symptoms of vaginitis caused by Candida albicans
vaginal itching, thick white vaginal discharge, vaginal pain
Describe nursing interventions for a pts vaginitis caused by Candida albicans
Eating yogurt with live cultures is encouraged. Clean, dry, loose-fitting underwear. Reduce sugar intake. Anti-fungal medications.
What factors can lead to a candida albicans (yeast) vaginitis?
Taking antibiotics, taking corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, HIV+, diabetes.
What precautions must a pt take when taking metronidazole/Flagyl?
No alcohol ingestion. Can cause severe vomiting. Take with food as can cause stomach distress.
Symptoms of PID
Low-grade fever, pelvic or abdominal pain, a “bearing down” backache, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, nausea and vomiting, dysmenorrheal, intense pain on pelvic exam.
Treatment plan for a pt with PID
Antibiotics, oral, or IV, depending on severity. Medicated vaginal suppositories. Bedrest in semi-Fowler’s position. No douching, tampons, or intercourse (pelvic rest). Pt teaching: safe sex practices, perineal hygiene.