Mastectomy Priorities
What position do you place the patient in after a mastectomy?
Upright with arms on pillows
How often should you perform a breast exam?
Once a month
What are some of the common signs and symptoms?
Lump in the breast
Bloody discharge from the nipple
Changes in shape or texture of the nipple or breast
Redness
Swollen lymph nodes
What are some treatment options for breast cancer?
Modified radical mastectomy
Total mastectomy
Lumpectomy
Breast conservation treatment
Sentinel node biopsy vs. axillary lymph node dissection
What time of the month should women perform a self breast exam?
One week after menstrual cycle
What assessment should be a priority?
Axillary drainage site
At what age should women get mammograms every year?
Begin at age 40
Discomfort
Inverted nipple
Lumps
Nipple discharge
How does breast cancer begin?
As a single, transformed cell
What technique should you use while performing a self breast exam?
Circular motion with pads of fingers
What should you promote after surgery?
Positive self image
When should you not perform a breast exam?
During your menstrual cycle or a week before.
What is the most common form of breast cancer?
Infiltrating ductal carcinoma
Women in their 20’s and 30’s should get a clinical exam every how often?
At least every 3 years
An abnormal finding would be what?
A lump
Nipple discharge
Pain
Changes to the nipple or breast