ATI Med/Surg Chapter 90: Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Procedures

Indications: client presentation - answer-Cancer: altered body function change in body structure change in body symmetry Metastasis: secondary sites of discomfort swelling and tenderness of lymph nodes or area of the body presence of masses altered body function of another body system bone pain Considerations - answer-Complete a health history and physical assessment including client report of findings and family history of cancer or genetic disorder Inspect for changes in color, symmetry, movement, or body function Auscultate for adventitious sounds that indicate altered body system function -heart, lung, bowel sounds -main arteries -masses or areas of discomfort Palpate to detect masses or tissue abnormalities -use light, medium, and deep pressure as appropriate -some palpation assessments should be performed by provider only Percuss for changes in expected sound over organs -dullness in the lungs or bowel can indicate areas of consolidation or tumor -increased liver size can indicate inflammation or tumor Report unexpected findings to the provider Provider explanation when there is need for further testing or evaluation of unexpected findings Client education - answer-Perform self examination practices at home Understand the general findings that could indicate cancer. If found, notify the provider for further screening -change in bowel or bladder habits, change in shape or texture of a body or skin region -difficulty eating, chewing, swallowing, or decreased appetite -non-healing sores or wounds, or a cough or hoarseness that does not go away -unexplained pain, night sweats, fatigue, weight loss, or weight gain -unusual bleeding Biopsy - answer-Provides definitive diagnosis indicating the site of origin and cell