The school nurse is teaching a group of clients about how tobacco smoke causes lung cancer. Which pathophysiological process supports the risk of cancer from smoking?
Vasoconstrictive properties of nicotine reduce oxygenation and stimulate metabolism.
Drug addiction changes the neurochemical messages in the brain causing cravings.
Carcinogenic agents in tobacco alter cellular cytology, morphology, and function of the lung.
Risk for comorbidities increase incidence of chronic diseases and decrease longevity.
The Correct Answer is C
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for lung cancer, and the pathophysiological process underlying this association involves the exposure of the lungs to carcinogenic agents present in tobacco smoke. Here's why option C is the correct choice:
A) Vasoconstrictive properties of nicotine reduce oxygenation and stimulate metabolism:
While nicotine is a primary addictive component of tobacco smoke and can lead to vasoconstriction, reduced oxygenation, and increased metabolism, these effects primarily contribute to cardiovascular diseases associated with smoking, such as coronary artery disease and stroke, rather than the development of lung cancer.
B) Drug addiction changes the neurochemical messages in the brain causing cravings:
This statement addresses the addictive nature of nicotine and its impact on neurochemistry, leading to cravings and dependence. While addiction is a significant aspect of tobacco use, it does not directly explain the pathophysiological process by which smoking causes lung cancer.
C) Carcinogenic agents in tobacco alter cellular cytology, morphology, and function of the lung:
Correct. Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogenic compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitrosamines, and benzene, which can directly damage the DNA of lung cells. This DNA damage can lead to mutations and alterations in cellular cytology, morphology, and function, ultimately contributing to the development of lung cancer.
D) Risk for comorbidities increase incidence of chronic diseases and decrease longevity:
While smoking is associated with an increased risk of various comorbidities and chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and certain cancers, this option does not specifically address the pathophysiological process of lung cancer development.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Flank pain and profound hypotension:
Correct. Flank pain, often described as a deep, constant, gnawing, or throbbing sensation in the abdomen or back, can be a sign of impending rupture or dissection of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Profound hypotension may occur if the AAA ruptures, leading to massive internal bleeding and shock. Prompt recognition of these signs is crucial for early intervention and surgical repair to prevent catastrophic consequences.
B) Acute shortness of breath and chest pain:
Acute shortness of breath and chest pain are more indicative of cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions such as myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, or acute coronary syndrome rather than an abdominal aortic aneurysm. While aortic dissection can present with chest pain, it is typically described as severe, tearing, or ripping pain that radiates to the back, not as acute shortness of breath.
C) Absent pedal pulses and darkened toes:
Absent pedal pulses and darkened toes may indicate peripheral vascular disease or critical limb ischemia but are not specific signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. While AAA can lead to peripheral ischemia in advanced cases, it is not typically associated with acute changes in pedal pulses or toe discoloration.
D) Tea-colored urine and decreased output:
Tea-colored urine and decreased urine output may indicate acute kidney injury or rhabdomyolysis but are not specific signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. While a ruptured AAA can lead to renal ischemia and acute kidney injury due to hypoperfusion, these symptoms are not the primary manifestations of AAA
Correct Answer is A,D,C,E,B
Explanation
This sequence starts with an injury to the arterial endothelium, leading to inflammation. Macrophages then consume LDL, forming foam cells. These foam cells release growth factors that stimulate the growth of smooth muscle cells. The smooth muscle cells grow over the fatty streaks, creating fibrous plaques. Finally, as these plaques grow, they narrow the vessel, which can result in ischemia. This is a simplified explanation of a complex process that involves many other factors and steps. It’s also important to note that this process can take many years to develop.
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