A client is scheduled for cryosurgery to remove some abnormal tissue on the cervix. The nurse teaches the client about this treatment, explaining that the tissue will be removed by which method?

A. Burning - This method involves using heat or a cautery device to burn away abnormal tissue. It is typically referred to as electrocautery or thermal ablation. While burning is a method used in some procedures, such as electrocautery for removing warts or lesions, it is not the technique used in cryosurgery.

B. Irradiating - This term refers to the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer or abnormal tissue growth. In irradiation, high-energy radiation beams are directed at the target area to destroy abnormal cells. It is not the method used in cryosurgery.

C. Freezing - Cryosurgery involves freezing the abnormal tissue using extremely cold temperatures, typically with the application of liquid nitrogen or another cryogen. The freezing process causes cellular destruction, leading to the removal of the abnormal tissue. Cryosurgery is commonly used in dermatology, gynecology, and other medical specialties for various conditions.

D. Cutting - Cutting involves physically removing tissue using surgical instruments such as scalpels or scissors. While cutting may be involved in some procedures to remove abnormal tissue, such as excisional biopsies, cryosurgery specifically does not involve cutting. Instead, it relies on freezing to destroy and remove the targeted tissue.

A. Inspect the breasts:

Inspecting the breasts visually is usually the first step in a clinical breast examination. The nurse observes the size, shape, symmetry, and skin characteristics of the breasts, including any visible abnormalities such as dimpling, puckering, or changes in skin texture or color.

B. Palpate the axillary area:

Palpating the axillary (underarm) area is typically done after inspecting the breasts. This allows the nurse to assess for any enlarged lymph nodes or palpable masses in the axillary region, which could indicate pathology or breast cancer metastasis.

C. Compress the nipple for a discharge:

If there are concerns about nipple discharge, this step may follow breast palpation. By gently compressing the nipple, the nurse can assess for any abnormal discharge, such as bloody or spontaneous discharge, which may warrant further investigation.

D. Palpate the breasts:

Palpating the breasts is usually performed after visual inspection and axillary palpation. During breast palpation, the nurse systematically examines each breast using circular motions with varying pressure to detect any lumps, masses, or areas of tenderness. This thorough palpation helps identify any abnormalities within the breast tissue.