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tumors or cells that reproduce abnormally
neoplasms
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cluster of cells that is not normal to the cell but cancerous
benign tumor
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do all neoplasms contain cancer cells
no, but neoplastic cells are responsible for making tumors and is a lively growing cell
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a group of cells that grows out of control, taking over the function of the affected organ
cancer
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these cells are defined as poorly constructed, loosely formed and without organization; a confused cell.
cancer cells
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property of normal cells in which contact by the cell with another cell or tissue signals them to stop dividing
contact inhibition
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first step of cancer growth, it causes an alteration in the genetic structure of the cell (DNA)
initiation
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second step of cancer cell growth, a tumor forms from mutated cell reproduction
promotion
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oncoviruses are linked to cancer in humans. which oncovirus is associated with burkitt's lymphoma
Epstein-Barr
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neoplasms occuring in the epithelial cells
carcinoma
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most common type of cancer and includes cells of the skin, GI system and lungs
carcinoma
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cancer cells affecting connective tissues including fat, the sheath that contains nerves, cartilage, muscle and bone
sarcoma
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abnormal growth of white blood cells
leukemia
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neoplastic cells that remain in one area are considered localized or _____ cancers
in situ
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the term used to describe the spread or the tumor from the primary site into separate and distant areas
metastasis
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what are the 3 steps in the formation of metastasis
- 1. invation of blood or lymph vessels
- 2. movement by mechanical means
- 3. lodging and growing in a new location
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name some factor that influence the formation of cancers
- long term use of estrogen
- chronic irritation
- high-fat, low-fiber diets
- altered immunity
- chemicals
- radiation
- virii
- genetics
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metastic tumors
- carry the cell characteristics of the original tumor site
- lung tissue found in brain suggests a primary lung tumor with metastasis to brain tissue
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when should women start pap smears
21 and every 1 to 2 years after
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incisional biopsy
removes small amount of tissue for inspection
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excisional biopsy
removes entire tissue mass
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needle aspiration biopsy
insertion of needle to remove fluid or aspirate tissue
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stereotactic biopsy
- evaluates lesions in brain or breast
- biopsy site immobilized
- site is scanned for location and a fiber optic instrument inserted
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frozen section biopsy
- sample is removed during surgery
- sample is frozen for microscopic examination
- provides quick analysis and directs remainder of surgical procedure
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most common system used for staging tumors
tumor-node-metastasis
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tumor-node-metastasis system
- tumor: TX (tumor cant be evaluated), T0 (no evidence of primary tumor), Tis (carcinoma in situ), T1,2,3,4 (size and/or extent of primary tumor)
- regional lymph node: NX (lymph nodes cant be evaluated), N0 (no cancer found), N1,2,3 (# and/or extent of spread)
- distant metastasis: MX (cant be evaluated), M0 (no distant metastasis), M1 (distant metastasis)
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what are the typical system reactions to radiation therapy
- fatigue
- nausea, vomiting and anorexia
- mucositis
- xerostomia
- desquamation
- bone marrow depression
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mucositis and its treatment
- inflammation of mucous membranes, especially of the mouth and throat
- advise pt to perform mouth care before meals and every 3 to 4 hours
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xerostomia and its treatment
- dry mouth
- encourage frequent mouth care
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desquamation
- skin peels from radiation, varies to mild redness and moistness
- keep skin dry, free from irritants and protect from exposure to direct sunlight
- desquamation irritants are powder, lotions and restrictive clothing
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why are two or more chemotherapy drugs (antineoplastics) used to treat a pts cancer
- increases effectiveness
- decreases side effects and and possiblity of tumor becoming resistant
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which cells are affected the most by chemotherapy and radiation
fast growing epithelial cells such as hair, blood, skin and GI tract
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term(s) used for a low white blood cell count
- leukopenia or neutropenia
- neutrophils respond to bacterial infections and are the most plentiful
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term used for a low platelet count
thrombocytopenia
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term used for inflammation of the mouth
stomatitits
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normal platelet level
- 150,000 - 300,000
- potential for bleeding at 50,000
- spontaneous bleeding at 20,000
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nursing care for a pt with thrombocytopenia
- give numega which stimulates platelet production
- avoid IM, subQ and rectal meds
- apply pressure for at least 5 min to venipuncture or injection sites
- teach the pt about gentle oral care, no flossing
- avoid trauma to rectal tissue
- no NSAIDS or aspirin
- no sex
- observe for bruising, petechiae, bleeding gums, tarry stools and black emesis
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why do we weight pts and monitor their food and fluid intake?
- it is an objective measurement to determine if intake is enough to maintain weight
- weight gain is also a possible sign of fluid retention
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what kind of food would you provide a pt going through chemotherapy or radiation?
- small, high calorie meals; prevents pt from feeling full and nauseated
- room temp or cold foods; have fewer odors and are more comfortable to eat
- sour foods help control nausea
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what is the purpose of the medications epogen and procrit?
stimulates production of RBCs
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superior vena cava syndrome
- tumor from lung cancer or cancers of the mediastinum block circulation in the vena cava
- causes edema of head, neck and arms
- symptoms: shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, facial redness, and swollen neck veins
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when the bone starts to deteriorate what is a common secondary problem?
- hypercalcemina; Ca ions leech into the blood
- IV meds and hydration lower the concentration
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disseminated intravascular coagulation
- abnormal activation of the clot formation and fibrin mechanisms in the blood use up all the coagulation factors and platelets
- pt is placed on bleeding precautions and at high risk for thrombus formation
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term for small purplish hemorrhagic spots under the skin
petechiae
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hemorrhage into the skin, mucous membranes and organs
purpura
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where are the best sites for bone marrow aspiration
iliac crest, sternum and spinous process of vertebrae
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what are the protocols involved during a blood transfusion
- 2 nurses are required
- all info for the pt and what's listed on blood bag must match
- 18 or 20 gauge catheteris required
- only normal saline is allowed to piggyback
- allow 2 - 4 hrs for transfusion
- monitor pt for first 15 minutes
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which nutrients are essential for the production of healthy RBCs?
iron, folic acid and vitamin B12
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anemia is related to which 3 conditions
- impaired RBC product, i.e. aplastic anemia
- increased destrucion of RBC, i.e. hemolytic or sickle cell anemia
- massive or chronic blood loss
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Pallor, tachycardia, tachypnea, irritability, fatigue and shortness of breath are common symptoms of which hematologic disorder?
- anemia
- all if not most represent poor oxygenation
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signs and symptoms associated with pernicious anema (lack of B12)
numbness in hands or feet and weakness, fissures at corners of mouth, an inflamed tongue (glossitis) and spoon shaped fingernails
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foods high in iron
- red meat
- dark green leafy vegetables
- dried fruits
- enriched, fortified or whole-grain products
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techniques to enhance absorption of iron
ingest vitamin c and stewing acidic foods in iron cookware
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good sources of folic acid
liver, green leafy vegetables, legumes and enriched grain products
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food sources of vitamin b12
- derived from animal sources
- meat, fish and shellfish, poultry and milk
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vitamin b12 is essential for what?
- manufacture of RBCs
- maintenance of myelin which facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses
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name some therapeutic measures for anemic pts
change cooking habits, take dietary supplements, decrease alcohol intake
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if a pt has pernicous anemia will he need vitamin b12 shots for life?
yes
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what are the side effects associated with iron supplements
nausea, diarrhea, constipation and dark stools
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what is aplastic anemia
- bone marrow becomes fatty and incapable of producing adequate amounts of RBC
- results in pancytopenia
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term for reduced number of all formed elements from the bone marrow (RBC, WBC and platelets)
pancytopenia
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signs and symptoms of aplastic anemia
progressive weakness, fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath and headaches
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therapeutic measures for aplastic anemia
- bone marrow transplant, steroid therapy and colony stimulating factors
- colony stimulating factors: epogen, filgrastim, neupogen
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sickle cell anemaia
- mutation in RBC makes hemoglobin sensitive to oxygen changes.
- Times of low oxygenation or high stress change RBCs into sickles that are rigid and easily broken
-
list the interventions for a pt at risk for infection
- private room
- staff and visitors must wash hands before entering room
- pt must wash hands before and after toileting as well as before and after eating
- prevent ppl with infections from entering the room
- pt must not handle flowers and can't have plants in her room
- pt must avoid raw fruits, vegetables and milk products
- avoid use of indwelling urinary catheters and other invasive devices
- use strict aseptic technique when performing invasive procedures
- use acetaminophen if an antipyretic is needed; aspirin can induce bleeding
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interventions to prevent bleeding in a pt with thrombocytopenia
- use an electric razor
- soft toothbrush or gauze to clean teeth
- avoid invasive procedures including enema, douches, suppositories and rectal temps
- avoid IM injections
- avoid blood draws and try to draw only once per day
- maintain pressure on IV, blood draw and other puncture sites for 5 minutes
- encourage use of slippers or shoes when out of bed
- keep area clutter free to prevent bumps and bruises
- avoid drugs that interfere with platelet function such as aspirin and NSAIDS
- give stool softeners
- turn pt gently to avoid bruising
- pt should blow nose gently and only when necessary
- consult physician on whether sex is safe
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what are some conditions that may lead to sickle cell crisis
- pneumonia with hypoxia
- exposure to cold
- diabetic ketoacidosis
- severe infection
- anesthesia and blood loss during surgery
- postoperative dehydration
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common symptoms during sickle cell crisis
- severe pain and swelling in the joints, abdominal pain (swelling of spleen and vital organs), hypoxia, fever, pain, priapism
- symptoms of renal failure
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nursing care for a pt with sickle cell anemia includes increasing or maintaing tissue perfusion how can this be achieved
- encourage fluids to dilute and aid in eliminating cell debris
- warm compress to painful areas, cover pt with a blanket and keep room above 72 F to reduce vasoconstriction
- avoid cold compresses which cause vasoconstriction and may trap additional sickled cells
- avoid restrictive clothing and raising the knee gatch of the bed
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which medication should be avoided when a pt is having a sickle cell crisis
aspirin, it may increase acidosis which can worsen the crisis
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what should the nurse teach a pt with sickle cell to help prevent acute episodes
- avoid tight fitting clothing that restricts circulation
- avoid strenuous exercise
- avoid things that cause vasoconstriction such as smoking and the cold
- avoid alcohol
- encourage fluids to maintain hydration and lower blood viscosity
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Condition in which RBCs, platelets and WBCs are overproduced
Polycythemia
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what causes secondary polycythmia
- long term hypoxia which causes the pt to make more RBCs
- COPD, cardiovascular problems such as chronic heart failure, living in high altitudes and smoking
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common lab values for a pt with polycythemia
hemoglobin greater than 18mg/dl, hematocrit > 55%
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signs and symptoms of polycythemia
- most issues are related hypervolemia, hyperviscosity and engorgement of the capillary bed
- htn, vision changes, headache, vertigo, dizziness, and ringing in the ears
- nosebleeds, bleeding gums, retinal hemorrhage, exertional dyspnea, chest pain
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panmyelosis
- increased level of all bone marrow components (RBC, WBC, platelets)
- associated with polycythemia
-
treatment for pt with polycythemia
- therapeutic phlebotomy; 350 - 500 mL removed every other day (goal is hematocrit = 45%)
- low dose aspirin to reduce thrombus formation
- chemotherapy or radiation to reduce production of WBCs
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education for a pt with polycythemia
drink at least 3L of water, smoking cessation, avoid tight clothing, elevate feet when resting, ambulate frequently
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Disseminated intravascular coagulation
- accelerated clotting causes all clotting factors and platelet supplies to be exhausted and clots can no longer be formed
- organ and limb necrosis is caused by massive clotting in blood vessels
- develops secondary to major trauma
-
what causes disseminated intravascular coagulation
major trauma; overwhelming infection, abruptio placentae, leukemia, severe crush injuries, etc
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therapeutic measures for a pt with disseminated intravascular coagulation
blood, fresh frozen plasma, platelets, vitamin K, cryoprecipitate
-
idopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
increased platelet destruction by the immune system
-
what causes idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
usually occurs after an acute viral illness such as rubella or chickenpox, may also be drug induced or associated with pregnancy
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therapeutic measures for the pt with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
- give steroids to prolong platelet life
- remove spleen; primary site of platelet destruction
- acute episodes treated with blood transfusion, platelets and vitamin k
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hemophilia
- hereditary bleeding disorders that result from a lack of specific clotting factors
- hemophilia is a deficiency of clotting factor VIII
- hemophilia is a deficiency of clotting factor IX
-
common hemophilia myths
- ppl bleed faster
- they are at risk from small scratches
-
hemarthrosis is associated with hemophilia what is its
bleeding into muscles and joints, repeated episodes may cause deformities
-
therapeutic measures for hemophilic pts
- inhalation of desmopressin
- providing pt with clotting factors (IX or VIII)
-
severity of hemophilia
- mild: excessive bleeding is associated with surgery or significant trauma
- moderate: occasional spontaneous bleeding
- severe: more frequent spontaneous bleeding
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leukemia
- too many immature WBCs are created by bone marrow
- reduced RBC production
- pt is anemic and prone to infections
-
multiple myeloma
- cancerous plasma cells cause tumors in bone tissue and weaken them
- bones of the skull, pelvis, ribs and vertebrae are usually affected
-
signs and symptoms of myeloma
- skeletal pain, joint swelling and tenderness, low grade fever,
- hypercalcemia because calcium leaves the bones
- kidney failure due to excess calcium in bones
-
nursing care for pts with multiple myeloma
- keep pt mobile to keep calcium within bones
- intake more than 4L daily
- give enough fluids so pt excretes 1500 mL of urine
-
therapeutic measures for multiple myeloma
- corticosteroids and oral or IV chemotherapy
- monitor for hypercalcemia, hyperuricemia, dehydration, respiratory infection, renal problems and pain
-
hodgkins lymphoma
- reed-sternberg cells found in lymph system
- most curable
- usually starts with painlessly enlarged lymph nodes of cervical, axillary and inguinal areas
- most common in pts that had mononucleosis
- alcohol induced pain
-
non-hodgkins lymphoma
- no reed-sternberg cells
- usually starts with painlessly enlarged lymph nodes of cervical, axillary and inguinal areas
- cancer cells may be found in other lymph tissue (tonsils, thymus or bone marrow)
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