Benchmark – Nursing Process: Approach to care
Cancer is a term that refers to a group of illnesses caused by the uncontrolled propagation of cells in the body. These cells can invade and disseminate to other areas of the body as they develop (Zhou et al., 2017). The uncontrolled proliferation and cell division cause some confusion, which leads to cancer. Although various reasons trigger cancer, excessive alcohol abuse, lifestyles, poor eating habits, and associated hereditary factors are frequent predisposing elements (Zhou et al., 2017). As a result, cancer therapy is custom-made primarily to accommodate the individual’s requirements and the phase of the ailment. The study explores the distinct elements of cancer, such as its diagnosis and staging, disease snags, and adverse effects related to treatment. Therefore, this paper will further deliberate on the variables that lead to higher death rates and the American Cancer Society’s Educational tools. Finally, the article discusses ways the liberal arts education system and nurses use the nursing practice to care for people.
Diagnosis and Staging of Cancer
Cancer Diagnosis
There are numerous types of cancer. According to research, each type of cancer has a unique set of signs and symptoms that make it challenging to make an exact diagnosis (Zhou et al., 2017). Consequently, determining an adequate diagnosis is essential as it helps in developing an effective treatment strategy. Some self-examination methods are accessible to assist in detecting unusual alterations in the breast tissues, reproductive organs, and other internal body parts (Zhou et al., 2017). Scans, which help identify cancer, are another method for diagnosing cancer. Medical practitioners have traditionally used mammography and imaging to detect cancer by recognizing the swelling of breast tissues that may indicate malignancy. Endoscopic exams are also performed to see whether any polyps in the colon may be malignant (Zhou et al., 2017).
Acquiring a thorough patient history is also essential since it aids in the diagnostic process. Some evidence, such as sudden weight loss, slower wound healing, or inexplicable bleeding, may indicate malignancy (Zhou et al., 2017). Various lab test imaging such as MRI and PET are employed and critically evaluate a patient’s history to diagnose a cancer disease successfully. The scan results may show a tumor from which tissues may be removed to determine whether or not it is malignant. However, if a biopsy is undertaken and positive results are found, the cancer is categorized depending on its size and potential for spreading to other body parts (Zhou et al., 2017).
Cancer Staging
Cancer Staging is a process employed to detect and treat numerous types of cancer; nonetheless, Leukemia tends to be an exception. The TNM model is the most commonly used technique for cancer staging. TNM is an abbreviation with a different meaning for each letter. T is a term that is often used to denote the original or primary tumor (Giuliano et al., 2018). On the other hand, N is utilized to determine whether the malignancy has progressed to the nearby lymphatic system. Finally, M is used to indicate whether metastasis has occurred, demonstrating whether the cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. When determining how far cancer has spread to other bodies, doctors check for the original tumor first (Giuliano et al., 2018). Cancer may be allocated any letter in the T category; for example, TX indicates that no information on the primary tumor or its measurement can be provided. TO, on the other hand, denotes the inability to identify the primary tumor. Finally, it is used to indicate that the cancer is exclusively spreading in the areas where it originally appeared (Giuliano et al., 2018). In the N and M categories, similar numbers are utilized. The cancer staging process offers physicians important information that forms the foundation of a successful treatment plan, even though there are various techniques and systems used to stage cancer (Giuliano et al., 2018).
Complications of Cancer, Side Effects of Treatment and Methods to lessen the Physical and Psychological Effects of Cancer
Complications
Cancer is linked to a variety of consequences that cause pain to those who are afflicted. As a consequence of the hormonal changes in the system, the individual has regular bouts of nausea and vomiting. According to studies, these problems affect about 20-30% of individuals in the late cancer stages. Malnutrition occurs as a consequence of recurrent vomiting because no nutrients are absorbed in the body. Shortness of breath is another problem that cancer may cause. Breathing difficulties are often caused by decreased lung capacity, increased pulmonary stiffness, and a decrease in gas exchange in the system (Chang et al., 2017). Finally, cancer may cause issues wi