ASSESSMENT
A patient with a long smoking history presents with a chronic cough and hemoptysis. What condition should the nurse suspect?
Lung cancer.
What is the priority nursing intervention for a lung cancer patient with dyspnea?
Administer oxygen.
Why is Albuterol used in lung cancer patients?
To relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow.
What is the most life-threatening complication of lung cancer?
Respiratory failure.
Why is oxygen therapy important in lung cancer patients?
Improves oxygenation and reduces hypoxia.
A patient reports unexplained weight loss and fatigue. Why is this concerning in lung cancer?
Indicates possible malignancy and systemic effects of cancer.
A patient with SVC syndrome is symptomatic. What is the FIRST nursing action?
Elevate the head of the bed.
Why are opioids like Morphine used in lung cancer?
To manage pain and reduce dyspnea.
Why does lung cancer increase risk of infection?
Airway obstruction and immunosuppression.
Why should lung cancer patients be monitored for weight loss?
Indicates disease progression or malnutrition.
A patient with lung cancer develops facial swelling and distended neck veins. What complication is this?
Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome.
Why should patients with lung cancer be encouraged to stop smoking?
Prevents further lung damage and improves treatment outcomes.
What is the purpose of Ondansetron in cancer patients?
Prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
What causes SVC syndrome in lung cancer?
Tumor compression of the superior vena cava.
Why is early detection of lung cancer difficult?
Symptoms often appear late.
A patient with lung cancer develops hyponatremia. What paraneoplastic syndrome is suspected?
SIADH.
A patient receiving chemotherapy develops shortness of breath and fever. What is the priority action?
Assess for infection and notify provider immediately.
A patient receiving Cisplatin requires monitoring of which organ?
Kidneys (nephrotoxicity).
Why can lung cancer cause SIADH?
Tumor secretes ADH ectopically.
A patient with SIADH from lung cancer has confusion. What is the cause?
Hyponatremia leading to cerebral edema.
A patient presents with new onset wheezing localized to one lung. Why is this concerning?
Possible tumor obstructing airway.
A patient has severe airway obstruction due to tumor. What is the priority concern?
Airway compromise and respiratory failure.
Why is Filgrastim used in lung cancer patients?
To increase white blood cells and reduce infection risk.
A patient becomes acutely hypoxic. What is the priority concern?
Airway obstruction or respiratory failure.
A patient asks why they feel short of breath even at rest. What is the best explanation?
Tumor reduces lung capacity and impairs gas exchange.