Surgical Procedures and Treatment Purposes Quiz

Cancer and Treatment

• The main purpose of a prophylactic surgery is to prevent the development of cancer.
• Supportive/palliative treatment is exemplified by the procedure of pain management, which aims to improve the quality of life for patients with cancer.

Care and Safety

• Caregivers should maintain safety around a patient with a radioactive implant by following proper radiation safety protocols, including wearing protective gear and minimizing exposure.
• To prevent infection, patients on Neutropenia precautions should be provided with the most appropriate care, including a private room, meticulous hand hygiene, and strict adherence to infection control measures.

Cancer Cells and Immune System

• Cancer cells differ from normal cells in that they are not recognized by the immune system, allowing them to grow and multiply unchecked.

Complications and Reactions

• A common symptom associated with end-stage complications of chest cancers is dyspnea (shortness of breath).
• A potential microvascular complication of cancer treatment is thrombosis (blood clots).
• The Somogyi effect and Dawn phenomenon in patients with diabetes can be distinguished by measuring the patient's glucose levels and assessing their symptoms.
• Severe allergic respiratory reactions require immediate assessment, including checking the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs).

Cancer Staging and Treatment

• The 'T' in the TNM staging system represents the tumor size and extent of local invasion.
• In the TNM staging system, 'N0' indicates that there is no regional lymph node involvement.
• The recommended treatment for hypoglycemia is to administer glucose or a sweet drink/snack.

Stem Cell Transplants and Care

• The most dangerous complication for a patient with a stem cell transplant is Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).
• Healthcare providers can protect patients with stem cell transplants from GVHD by using prophylactic medications, such as immunosuppressants, and monitoring the patient's immune system.
• The primary purpose of using prophylactic medications in stem cell transplant patients is to prevent GVHD.

Palliative Care and Pain Management

• For a dying cancer patient, palliative care should be consulted to manage pain and symptoms, with a focus on improving the patient's quality of life.
• Post radiation therapy, the skin should be cared for by avoiding sun exposure, using gentle cleansers, and applying moisturizers to prevent dryness and irritation.

Transfusions and Transplants

• When an immune-deficient person receives immunocompetent cells through a transfusion or transplant, a complication that arises is graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).