NUR 4445 Cancer 2

NUR 4445 Cancer 2
1. What are the cardinal symptoms of cancer in children (8)?
Answer
- Unusual mass or swelling
- Unexplained paleness or loss of energy
- Sudden tendency to bruise
- Persistent, localized pain or limping***
- Prolonged, unexplained fever or illness
- Frequent headaches, often with vomiting
- Sudden eye or vision changes
- Excessive, rapid weight loss
2. What are the different diagnostic tests used to diagnose cancer (9)?
Answer
Serologies (CBC, chemistries, inflammatory markers)
Radiologic studies (x-ray)
CT or CAT (computerized axial tomography)scan MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan
Bone marrow biopsy Lumbar puncture
Needle, incisional & excisional biopsies PET (positron emission tomography)scan Bonescan
3. What is an Absolute NeutrophilCount(ANC)?What is a normal,neutropenic, and severe
neutropenic cell count?
Answer
- a calculation of the number of circulating neutrophils
- Normal > 1,000
- Neutropenic = 500 - 1,000
- Severe neutropenia < 500
4. What are the characteristics of cancer treatment? What are the different goals with cancer
treatment (3)?
Answer
- Often several treatments are combined, including complementary therapy
- Goals
Curative, supportive, or preparing for end-of-life care
- Side effects must be managed also