A nurse is caring for a patient with squamous cell carcinoma. What potential complication should the nurse closely monitor for in this patient?
Metastasis to distant organs.
Local tissue invasion.
Cosmetic disfigurement.
Recurrent tumors.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Metastasis to distant organs is a potential complication of squamous cell carcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma can invade surrounding tissues and, if left untreated or if it spreads to lymph nodes or distant organs, it can become life-threatening.
Therefore, nurses should closely monitor for signs of metastasis, such as enlarged lymph nodes or symptoms indicative of distant organ involvement.
Choice B rationale:
Local tissue invasion is a characteristic feature of squamous cell carcinoma, but it is not considered a potential complication.
Instead, local tissue invasion is one of the primary characteristics of this type of skin cancer.
Complications typically refer to adverse outcomes or events that can occur as a result of the disease process, such as metastasis.
Choice C rationale:
Cosmetic disfigurement is a possible consequence of treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, such as surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
However, it is not a complication in the sense of an unexpected or adverse event.
Patients are often informed about the potential for cosmetic changes as part of the informed consent process before surgery.
Choice D rationale:
Recurrent tumors are a potential complication of squamous cell carcinoma.
Even after treatment, squamous cell carcinoma can recur in the same location or develop in nearby areas.
Therefore, it is important for nurses to monitor for signs of recurrence and educate patients about the importance of regular follow-up and skin examinations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Chronic sun exposure is not a risk factor for basal cell carcinoma.
This statement is incorrect.
Chronic sun exposure is a well-established risk factor for basal cell carcinoma (BCC).
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to the development of BCC.
Choice B rationale:
Family history of skin cancer does not increase the risk.
This statement is inaccurate.
A family history of skin cancer, including BCC, can increase an individual's risk of developing the condition.
Genetic factors can play a role in susceptibility to BCC.
Choice C rationale:
History of sunburns is unrelated to basal cell carcinoma risk.
This statement is accurate.
While chronic sun exposure is a risk factor for BCC, a history of sunburns, particularly severe or blistering sunburns, is not directly linked to BCC risk.
However, it is essential to note that sunburns can increase the risk of other types of skin cancer, such as melanoma.
Choice D rationale:
Exposure to certain chemicals is not associated with the condition.
This statement is incorrect.
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic and some industrial chemicals, has been associated with an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma.
Chemical exposure can be a contributing factor, but it is not the sole cause of BCC.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Apply sunscreen with a high SPF regularly.
This statement is appropriate for a patient with basal cell carcinoma (BCC).
Sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) can help protect the skin from further UV radiation damage and reduce the risk of additional skin cancers, including BCC.
Choice B rationale:
Administer chemotherapy as prescribed.
Chemotherapy is not a primary treatment for BCC.
Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment for BCC, and chemotherapy is typically reserved for advanced or metastatic cases of other types of cancer.
Choice C rationale:
Recommend radiation therapy for treatment.
Radiation therapy may be considered in some cases of BCC, but it is not typically the first-line treatment.
Surgical excision is the primary treatment choice for BCC, and radiation therapy may be used when surgery is not feasible.
Choice D rationale:
Encourage the patient to avoid atypical moles.
While it is essential to monitor and address any atypical moles or skin changes, this statement does not directly relate to the treatment of BCC.
BCC is primarily treated through surgical removal and other targeted therapies, not by avoiding atypical moles.
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