Diagnostic Methods of Cancer
Assessment Description
The nursing process is a tool that puts knowledge into practice. By utilizing this systematic problem-solving method, nurses can determine the health care needs of an individual and provide personalized care.
Write a paper (1,750-2,000 words) on cancer and approach to care based on the utilization of the nursing process. Include the following in your paper:
- Describe the different types of diagnostic methods utilized to identify possibility of cancer. Explain the numeric and Tumor, Node, Metastasized (TNM) method of staging of cancer after the confirmed diagnosis.
- Describe at least three complications of cancer, the side effects of treatment, and methods to lessen physical and psychological effects.
- Discuss what factors contribute to the yearly incidence and mortality rates of various cancers in Americans.
- Explain what the American Cancer Society (ACS) might provide for education and support. What ACS services could a nurse recommend for these patients and why?
- Explain how the nursing process is utilized to provide safe and effective care for cancer patients across the life span. Your explanation should include each of the five phases demonstrating the delivery of holistic and patient-focused care.
- How does an interdisciplinary research approach (which includes liberal arts, science studies, mathematics, social and physical sciences), build on the foundational nursing knowledge related to cancer research?
You are required to cite a minimum of four sources to complete this assignment. Sources must be published within the last 5 years and appropriate for the assignment criteria and relevant to nursing practice.
Diagnostic methods for identifying cancer include:
- Imaging tests: These include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans, which allow doctors to see inside the body and identify any abnormal growths or tumors.
- Biopsy: This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the suspected cancerous area for laboratory analysis to determine whether the tissue is cancerous or not.
- Blood tests: These tests look for specific markers that can indicate the presence of cancer in the body.
The TNM staging system is used to describe the extent and spread of cancer after diagnosis. It is based on three key factors:
- Tumor size and invasion: T describes the size and extent of the primary tumor.
- Lymph node involvement: N describes the presence and extent of cancer cells in nearby lymph nodes.
- Metastasis: M describes whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
The stage of cancer is determined by combining the T, N, and M values.
