The nurse is caring for a client who asks why blood levels of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is drawn at periodic intervals. Which of the following responses describes the correct rationale?
Decrease levels of CEA indicate the treatment of your colon cancer was effective
Increased levels of CEA indicate that surgery to correct your diverticulitis was effective
Increased levels of CEA indicate a return of your pancreatitis
Decreased levels of CEA indicate that you have Ulcerative Colitis
The Correct Answer is A
A. Decrease levels of CEA indicate the treatment of your colon cancer was effective: CEA is a tumor marker primarily used to monitor treatment response in certain cancers, especially colorectal cancer. A decrease in CEA levels after treatment suggests a positive response and reduced tumor burden.
B. Increased levels of CEA indicate that surgery to correct your diverticulitis was effective: CEA is not used to monitor diverticulitis. It is mainly associated with cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. An increase in CEA levels suggests possible cancer recurrence or progression, not resolution of diverticulitis.
C. Increased levels of CEA indicate a return of your pancreatitis: CEA is not a marker for pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is typically monitored using amylase, lipase, and imaging studies.
D. Decreased levels of CEA indicate that you have Ulcerative Colitis: Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that is not diagnosed or monitored using CEA. While chronic inflammation may increase cancer risk over time, CEA is not a direct indicator of UC.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Viral hepatitis: Hepatitis B and C are risk factors for liver cancer, not pancreatic cancer. There is no strong link between hepatitis and pancreatic cancer.
B. High-fiber diet: A high-fiber diet is protective against colorectal cancer, not a risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
C. Chronic pancreatitis: Chronic inflammation of the pancreas increases the risk of pancreatic cancer by causing long-term cellular damage and mutations.
D. Regular exercise: Exercise reduces the risk of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Sedentary lifestyles and obesity increase the risk.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A client admitted with pancreatitis who is requesting pain medication: While pancreatitis causes severe pain, this is not the highest priority. Pain management is important, but it does not indicate an immediate life-threatening issue.
B. A client post a liver biopsy who has tachycardia and is restless: Tachycardia and restlessness following a liver biopsy may indicate internal bleeding due to liver puncture. The liver is highly vascular, and hemorrhage is a serious complication requiring immediate assessment.
C. A client admitted with ulcerative colitis who is requesting an anti-diarrheal: While diarrhea is distressing, this is not life-threatening. The client can be seen after addressing the higher-priority client.
D. A client postop day 1 with dark red drainage the size of a dime on the dressing: Small amounts of dark red drainage are expected postoperatively. This client does not require immediate attention.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.