Cancer Unit 47
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Transcript Cancer Unit 47
Cancer Unit 47
Adonis K. Lomibao, R.N.
Objectives
Spell & define terms
List methods of reducing the risk of cancer
Explain the importance of good nutrition in
cancer prevention and treatment
List 7 S&S of cancer
Describe 2 types of cancer treatment
Describe nursing assistant responsibilities
when caring for patients with cancer
Introduction
Cancer: a disease in which the normal
mechanisms of cell growth are disturbed.
Benign: stays in one place and does not
spread
Metastasis: spread to other parts of the body
through the blood & lymphatic system
Malignant:cancers that are spread to other
parts of the body
Carcinogen: substance that causes cancer
Risk Factors
Age-most occur over 55
Lifestyle & habits
-smoking
-alcohol
-diet
Family history, genetics
Environmental pollution
Risk Factors Cont.
Harmful
Substances in environment:
-asbestos
-benzene
Chemicals
Radiation
Prolonged sun exposure
Infections & some viruses
Nutrition & Cancer
Direct relationship between certain foods and
certain cancers
Obesity: gallbladder, uterus, colon, & breast
CA
Prevention:
-30% or less calories from fat
-<300mg cholesterol/Daily
-55% of calories from complex carbs
-no more than 1 tsp. salt
Cancer Prevention & Detection
Preventative measures:
-not smoking
-limit alcohol
-food pyramid
-regular exercise
-healthy weight
-avoid sun exposure between 10a-3p
Genetic testing if at risk
S&S of Cancer
CAUTION
C-change in bowel or 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 changes in a wart, mole, skin cond.
N-nagging cough or hoarseness
Screening
Regular screening for early detection
Screening based on risk factors
Monthly personal screening:
-breast self-examination
-testicular self-examination
Treatment
Treatment is determined by:
-type of cancer
-location
-benign/malignant
-the stage (how advanced)
-general pt. condition
Surgery
Biopsy: minor surgery used to diagnose a
cancer
If cancerous, surgical procedure done to try to
completely remove cancerous tissue
May be part or all of an organ, & lymph tissue
Reconstructive surgery
Preventative surgery: done with strong genetic
link to CA
Chemotherapy
Uses medications or drugs to destroy the CA
Healthy cells may also be destroyed
Goals:
-eliminate,
-control & slow growth-prolong life
-reduce size-eliminate pain n improve quality of life
Drugs can be oral, I.V., etc.
Drugs very potent & irritating-require special
handling and disposal
Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Targets rapidly regenerating cells
Also affects: blood cells, hair/nail cells,GI Cells
Side Effects:
-Alopecia-within 2 weeks after therapy
-N&V
-Anorexia, loss of appetite—taste,nausea
-Anemia,Fatigue
-Low WBC
-low platelets
-Destruction of mouth mucous membranes
Disposal of Body Fluids & Wastes
May excrete drugs in waste & body fluids
Special PPE instructions & policies for
discarding
Discard in leak-proof container
Biohazard!
Gloves!
Standard Precautions
Special Care of the Chemo Pt.
Observe for side effects & report to nurse
Nursing comfort measures, mouthcare & bath
Prevent injuries & infection
Encourage deep breathing,
Vitals
Report S&S of infection (p.842)
Prevent bleeding
Promote good nutrition & hydration(p.842)
Report IV infilitration, change in mental status, change in
VS
Emotional support with body image!
Radiation Therapy
High-energy, ionizing beams at the cancer site
Destroys cancerous tissue without damaging
healthy tissue
Side effects:
-fatigue
-N & V
-loss of appetite
-p.843
Special Care of RT Pt.
Radiation may be irritating to the skin
Do not wash markings on skin off
Skin care!!:
-wash with lukewarm water & mild or no soap
-avoid rubbing on skin
-avoid shaving near treatment
-avoid tape near area
-p.843
Brachytherapy
Tiny radioactive seeds or pellets implanted
inside the body
Fewer side effects
Used for localized cancers such as breast,
prostate, lung, cervical CA
Seeds implanted-dosage depends on area &
type of CA
May be used in combination with radiation
Brachytherapy Pt. Care
Special precautions to reduce radiation
exposure
Private room
Visitors restricted on time & distance
Pregnant women & below 18 not permitted
Dosimeter-measures radiation dose
Immunotherapy
Treatment alters immune response to
eliminate the cancer
Biological agents change normal immune
response
Care involves:
-monitor VS Q4 or more
-monitor cap refill
-Bedrest if systolic below 100 or as instructed
-weigh pt. & report weight gain
Immunotherapy Cont.
Notify nurse:
-fever/chills
-rapid pulse/ respirations
-cyanosis
-SOB
-restless/apprehensive
-diarrhea, N&V
-itching
Pain
Most common symptom
May be caused by cancer or treatment
Extended pain reduces quality of life
WHO Analgesic ladder-model for pain
management
Pain evaluated regularly
Narcs may be necessary-low incidence of
addiction
Notify nurse
Mental & Emotional Needs
CA Pts.Fear dying, anxious, depressed, grieving
process.
PCT Care:
-time to talk
-allow to talk about feelings/fears
-ADL's
-anticipate needs
-respect beliefs & wishes
-respect privacy
-make pt. Feel respected & valued as person
Palliative Care
Care designed to treat symptoms of
discomfort, but not the disease
Advanced directive & DNR order
Comfort care till death-Hospice may be
involved
Maintain quality of life as long as possible
PCT care-hygiene & comfort
Emotional support
Report pain,SOB, anxiety