Unit 3 Flashcards
What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?
Benign tumors are not harmful and do not spread, while malignant tumors are harmful and can metastasize.
What does well differentiated mean in the context of tumors?
Well differentiated means the tumor cells resemble normal cells of the tissue from which the tumor originated.
What are characteristics of benign tumors?
Benign tumors are encapsulated, do not infiltrate surrounding tissues, have slow growth, and generally do not cause death unless they interfere with vital functions.
What are characteristics of malignant tumors?
Malignant tumors are undifferentiated, can metastasize, grow uncontrollably, and can cause systemic effects like anemia and weight loss.
What is primary prevention of cancer?
Primary prevention involves avoiding carcinogens, modifying associated factors like diet, and removing adverse tissues.
What is secondary prevention of cancer?
Secondary prevention involves screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and prostate exams to catch cancer early.
What does the acronym CAUTION US stand for in cancer warning signs?
C: Change in bowel and bladder habits, A: A sore that doesn’t heal, U: Unusual bleeding or discharge, T: Thickening or lump, I: Indigestion or difficulty swallowing, O: Obvious change in a wart or mole, N: Nagging cough or hoarseness, U: Unexplained anemia, S: Sudden unexplained weight loss.
How is cancer diagnosed?
Cancer is diagnosed through cytology, tissue biopsies, and bone marrow biopsies.
What is the purpose of staging cancer?
Staging provides a common language for healthcare providers and helps determine the prognosis and treatment options.
What does stage zero indicate in cancer staging?
Stage zero indicates that the cancer is in situ, meaning it has not spread from where it started.
What does G1 indicate in tumor grading?
G1 indicates a well differentiated tumor, making it easier to treat.
What are the types of cancer treatment?
The main types of cancer treatment are surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
What is the goal of control and debulking surgery?
The goal is to remove part of the tumor when complete removal is not possible.
What are the types of surgeries mentioned?
Control and debulking, curative, diagnostic, prophylaxis, palliation, and reconstructive.
What is debulking surgery?
Removal of part of the tumor when complete removal is not possible.
What is curative surgery?
Surgery aimed at curing the cancer by removing the tumor and possibly the organ attached to it.
What is diagnostic surgery?
Surgery performed to obtain a biopsy.
What is prophylactic surgery?
Surgery to remove potential tissues to prevent cancer.
What is palliative surgery?
Surgery aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, but not curative.
What is reconstructive surgery?
Surgery aimed at increasing function or enhancing appearance.
What is a major nursing priority for surgical patients post-op?
Pain control and management.
What should be avoided on the day of radiation treatment?
Deodorants and lotions.
What is external beam radiation?
A method where a beam of radiation is directed at specific areas to destroy tumors.
What is brachytherapy?
A treatment where permanent or temporary implants give off radiation over time.
What are common acute effects of radiation therapy?
Fatigue, hair loss, anorexia, nausea, vomiting.
What is CINV?
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
What are common side effects of chemotherapy?
Diarrhea, bone marrow suppression, stomatitis, hair loss.
What is doxorubicin also known as?
Adriamycin.
What is a significant side effect of doxorubicin?
Cardiotoxicity.
What is the purpose of administering allopurinol?
To manage hyperuricemia in patients receiving Oncamin.
What is the recommended action if a patient experiences extravasation with chemotherapy?
Stop the drug immediately.
What should be monitored in patients receiving Taxol?
For neurotoxicity.
What is a common intervention for mucositis or stomatitis?
Frequent oral hygiene with soft-bristle toothbrushes or disposable mouth sponges.
What should patients avoid if they have stomatitis?
Harsh mouthwashes and smoking.
What is recommended for oral hygiene in patients with mucocystitis or stomatitis?
Thorough and frequent oral hygiene is recommended. Avoid harsh mouthwashes, alcohol, and use a soft bristle toothbrush or a disposable mouth sponge.
What should patients with mucocystitis or stomatitis avoid?
Patients should avoid smoking and harsh mouthwashes.
What medications may be used to premedicate patients before meals?
Biscuits lidocaine or Magic Mouthwash may be used.
What is in Magic Mouthwash?
Magic Mouthwash contains Benadryl, Steroid Dexamethasone, and Istatin.
What is a common side effect of chemotherapy related to hair?
Patients may develop alopecia, which can be distressing.
What options do patients have for managing alopecia?
Patients can shave their heads or have wigs made from their hair.
What is the scalp cooling system used for?
The scalp cooling system is used to improve hair retention during chemotherapy.
What cognitive issue may arise from chemotherapy?
Decreased cognitive function, often referred to as chemo brain, may occur.
What is chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy?
Chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy is a neurotoxic effect that can sometimes be permanent.
Why is it important to assess for peripheral neuropathy in patients?
It places patients at risk for falls, necessitating fall precautions.
What should be considered in pain management for patients?
Assess where the pain is coming from and evaluate pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
What may be needed if pain management is insufficient?
Contacting providers for additional changes, different medications, or different routes may be necessary.
