Cancer Treatment and Pain Management

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary metabolic change in the body of a person with cancer in response to increased glucose demand?

Increased gluconeogenesis (correct)

Enhanced fat catabolism

Reduced gluconeogenesis

Increased glycolysis

Which vitamin deficiencies are commonly seen in persons with cancer?

Vitamin B12 and E

Vitamin K and E

Folic acid and D

Vitamin A, C, and thiamine (correct)

What is the term used to describe the progressive muscle wasting associated with cancer?

Cachexia (correct)

Sarcopenia

Dystrophy

Anorexia

Which of the following is NOT typically included in the psychosocial nursing assessment for cancer patients?

Evaluation of tumor markers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a common nursing diagnosis related to the psychological impact of cancer?

Anxiety related to complex disease process Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of gene therapy?

To correct genetic defects or manipulate genes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about granulocyte therapy?

The procedure for granulocyte collection is known as leukapheresis. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the nurse play in blood component therapy?

The nurse is responsible for identifying the need and administering therapy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most appropriate method for managing a patient's pain in a clinical setting?

Administer analgesia around the clock and re-evaluate frequently. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the condition where the body of a patient with cancer depletes fat stores and exhibits muscle wasting?

Cachexia Signup and view all the answers

What temperature defines hyperthermia in thermal therapy?

Above 41.5°C (106.7°F) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common outcome anticipated from gene therapy research?

A profound impact on medical and health care practices Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in the educational materials provided to patients regarding their prescribed medications?

A full list of each medication with dosage instructions and side effects. Signup and view all the answers

Which electrolyte imbalance can commonly occur in patients with cancer?

Hypercalcemia Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary nutritional response of the body to the increased demand for glucose in patients with cancer?

Increased rate of gluconeogenesis Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing diagnosis is most closely related to complications of a patient's immune system?

High risk for infection related to altered immunologic response. Signup and view all the answers

Which expected patient outcome indicates effective management of oral mucous membranes?

Maintains integrity of oral mucous membranes. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common nursing diagnosis related to body image in cancer patients?

Altered body image and self-esteem related to changes in appearance, function, and roles. Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is crucial for ensuring that a patient and their family can agree on treatment goals?

Educate patient and family about prognosis and end-of-life choices. Signup and view all the answers

In managing a cancer patient's nutritional needs, which diagnosis is most directly associated with a patient's inability to meet those needs?

Alteration in nutrition, less than body requirements, related to anorexia/cachexia/malabsorption. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of encouraging patients to join a support group?

To enhance feelings of security and acceptance Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing intervention is aimed explicitly at reducing anxiety related to losing control?

Recognition of feelings of losing control Signup and view all the answers

What nursing diagnosis addresses the patient’s feelings regarding death and dying?

Fear of death and dying Signup and view all the answers

How does learning about the treatment plan affect a patient's coping strategies?

It promotes a sense of control over their situation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary intention behind discussing methods of stress reduction such as relaxation and biofeedback?

To directly reduce patient anxiety levels Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of hyperthermia in the treatment of cancer?

To enhance the effectiveness of other therapies Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about palliative care is true?

Palliative care prioritizes relief and quality of life over curing the disease. Signup and view all the answers

How does hyperthermia enhance the effects of chemotherapy?

By increasing membrane permeability to allow for better uptake of drugs Signup and view all the answers

Which immune system function may be enhanced by hyperthermia?

Increased phagocytic activity of macrophages Signup and view all the answers

What specific aspect of a patient's pain should a nurse assess objectively?

The impact of pain on the patient's daily activities Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

B-Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia generates temperatures above 41.5°C (106.7°F) for tumor destruction in cancers.
Most effective when combined with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or biologic therapy.
Enhances radiation therapy effectiveness by damaging tumor cells unable to repair.
Alters cellular membrane permeability with chemotherapy, increasing drug uptake.
May enhance immune system function through macrophages and T cells.

C. Pain Management

Cancer pain can stem from tumor infiltration of bones, nerves, viscera, or past treatments.

D. Palliative Care

Palliative care focuses on symptom management for terminally ill patients rather than cure.
Aims to enhance life quality, providing comfort and specialized compassionate care.

Nursing Assessment and Interventions

Objectively evaluate pain: location, duration, quality, daily activity impact.
Anxiety is common, linked to complex disease processes and prognosis.
Coping struggles arise due to life-altering disease impacts.
Fear of death is prevalent amongst patients.

Nursing Interventions: Reducing Anxiety

Maintain a calm, unhurried environment for patient discussions.
Encourage open expression of feelings about cancer.
Use reflection to ease anxiety and provide reassurance.
Offer stress reduction techniques (imagery, relaxation).
Highlight positive treatment aspects and foster positive emotions.
Support participation in support groups.
Provide contact numbers for additional support and referrals to other services.

Promoting Effective Coping

Suggest cancer education programs for patients and families.
Involve patients in their treatment plan to bolster a sense of control.
Support system strengthening enhances self-esteem.
Adjust expectations and goals to facilitate ongoing adaptation.

VII-Gene Therapy

Gene therapy aim to correct genetic defects and potentially destroy tumor cells.
Involves inserting desired genes into target cells, with ongoing research showing promise.

Other Medical Interventions: Blood Component Therapy

Targets specific components needed by patients to minimize transfusion reactions.
Granulocytes treat granulocytopenia during chemotherapy by collecting from donors via leukapheresis.
Platelet transfusions are essential for patients with thrombocytopenia due to treatment.
Nurses play a key role in identifying needs, recruiting donors, and administering therapy.

Nutritional Support

Cancer patients require increased glucose; gluconeogenesis rate elevates to meet needs.
Cachexia leads to progressive muscle wasting and emaciation.
Nutritional deficiencies, including vitamins A, C, and thiamine, are common.
Monitor for fluid and electrolyte imbalances such as hypercalcemia and hyperuricemia.

Psychosocial Components of Care

Lifestyle assessments help understand patients' problem-solving skills pre-illness.
Identify signs of anxiety and depression including mood changes and sleep disturbances.
Assess daily living activities affected by cancer treatment.
Evaluate social support systems and interest in alternative cancer treatment options.

Common Cancer Patients Nursing Diagnoses

Risks include infection, injury from bleeding, and impaired skin or mucous membranes.
Nutrition-related diagnoses cover altered body requirements and fatigue.
Emotional challenges include grieving and altered body image.

Evaluation: Expected Patient Outcomes

Patients may maintain oral mucous membrane integrity and adequate nutritional status.
Pain relief and comfort should be achieved alongside improved body image.
Progress through grieving processes with no complications such as infections or bleeding.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts in hyperthermia for cancer treatment, pain management strategies, and the principles of palliative care. Explore how various therapies can enhance patient care and quality of life for those with terminal illnesses. Test your knowledge on the nursing assessments and interventions required for effective symptom management.