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## Medical Sur... ### 12. Take measures to prevent and treat side effects of opiates, such as constipation, nausea, and sedation. ### Nutritional Support - The body of the person with cancer responds to the increased demand for glucose, which is required by both normal and cancer cells by the incr...

## Medical Sur... ### 12. Take measures to prevent and treat side effects of opiates, such as constipation, nausea, and sedation. ### Nutritional Support - The body of the person with cancer responds to the increased demand for glucose, which is required by both normal and cancer cells by the increased rate of gluconeogenesis. - Progressive muscle wasting is called "cachexia" and gives the patient a characteristic appearance of emaciation. - The body stores of fat are depleted as the disease progresses. - Persons with cancer also exhibit deficiencies in such vitamins as A, C, and thiamine. Iron deficiency may also occur. Fluid and electrolyte imbalances include hypercalcemia, hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hyperkalemia. ### Psychosocial Components of Care #### Nursing Assessment 1. Assess lifestyle prior to illness. How did patient solve other problems? 2. Assess for signs of anxiety and coexistence of depression: agitation/restlessness, sleep disturbances, excessive autonomic activity, weight gain or loss, mood changes. 3. What activities of daily living can the patient perform? 4. What changes in lifestyle have resulted from cancer and its treatment? 5. Ascertain the patient's perception of the disease and treatment. 6. Evaluate available social support: who is the most significant other? 7. Ask patient if any alternative modalities are being visualized for cancer treatment. Be aware that many patients seek herbal and other remedies despite lack of scientific evidence of any benefit. #### Nursing Diagnoses 1. Anxiety related to complex disease process, treatment options, and prognosis. 2. Ineffective individual coping related to life-altering disease process. 3. Fear of death and dying.