spinal cord tumors

Question 1

classified based on what?

Answer 1

location
intramedullary (in cord)
extramedullary (outside dural membrane)

Question 2

manifestations of a spinal cord tumor

Answer 2

pain, weakness, loss of motor function, loss of reflexes, loss of sensation

Question 3

treatment depends on the type of tumor and location

Answer 3

surgical removal

relieve compression- dexamethasone combined w radiation

Question 4

h and p

Answer 4

neuro exam focus on pain or loss of reflex, sensation, motor function 
ct 
mri- best image
biopsy 
test CSF

Question 5

medical management of spinal cord tumors

Answer 5

surgical intervenion
sterotactic- beam of radiation
conventional radiation theray
spinal cord compression- results from a metastasis of and considered an emergency
high dose of decadron are effective in pain relief
palliative care- an option for some patients
chemotherapy- specific to the tumor

Question 6

nursing management of spinal cord tumors

Answer 6

neuro check and pain management
CSF, drain, JP, Foley, SCDs
Cervical- HOB up, hard color in place, anterior incision, monitor UE, LE Neurovascular, airway
Cervical- HOB up, hard color in place, anterior incision, monitor UE, LE Neurovascular, airway

Question 7

cervical tumor removal

Answer 7

Cervical- HOB up, hard color in place, anterior incision, monitor UE, LE Neurovascular, airway

Question 8

lumbar tumor removal

Answer 8

Cervical- HOB up, hard color in place, anterior incision, monitor UE, LE Neurovascular, airway

Question 9

caution with opioids because

Answer 9

don’t want to mask signs of respiratory depression