Nokea
A patient has presented for her annual mammogram. The patient voices concerns related to exposure to radiation. What should the nurse teach the patient about a mammogram?
- A. It does not use radiation.
- B. Radiation levels are safe as long as mammograms are performed only once per year.
- C. The negative effects of radiation do not accumulate until late in life.
- D. Radiation from a mammogram is equivalent to an hour of sunlight.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The radiation from a mammogram is minimal, equivalent to about an hour of sunlight exposure, making the benefits of early cancer detection outweigh the risks. Radiation is used, and effects do not specifically accumulate later in life; annual mammograms are safe.
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A 42-year-old man has come to the clinic for an annual physical. The nurse notes in the patients history that his father was treated for breast cancer. What should the nurse provide to the patient before he leaves the clinic?
- A. A referral for a mammogram
- B. Instructions about breast self-examination (BSE)
- C. A referral to a surgeon
- D. A referral to a support group
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Men with a family history of breast cancer, like a father, have an increased risk and should be taught breast self-examination to monitor for changes. Referrals for mammograms, surgery, or support groups are not indicated without symptoms or a diagnosis.
The nurse is caring for a patient who has just had a radical mastectomy and axillary node dissection. When providing patient education regarding rehabilitation, what should the nurse recommend?
- A. Avoid exercise of the arm for next 2 months.
- B. Keep cuticles clipped neatly.
- C. Avoid lifting objects heavier than 10 pounds.
- D. Use a sling until healing is complete.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Post-axillary dissection, patients should avoid lifting objects heavier than 5 to 10 pounds to prevent lymphedema or injury. Arm exercises are encouraged, cuticles should not be cut to avoid infection, and slings are unnecessary.
A patient who came to the clinic after finding a mass in her breast is scheduled for a diagnostic breast biopsy. During the nurses admission assessment, the nurse observes that the patient is distracted and tense. What is it important for the nurse to do?
- A. Acknowledge the fear the patient is likely experiencing.
- B. Describe the support groups that exist in the community.
- C. Assess the patients stress management skills.
- D. Document a nursing diagnosis of ineffective coping.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Acknowledging the patient's fear validates her emotions and opens communication, which is crucial during the diagnostic phase of a potential breast cancer diagnosis. Referring to support groups or assessing stress management is premature, and diagnosing ineffective coping assumes a problem not yet confirmed.
A new mother who is breastfeeding calls the clinic to speak to a nurse. The patient is complaining of pain in her left breast and describes her breast as feeling doughy. The nurse tells her to come into the clinic and be checked. The patient is diagnosed with acute mastitis and placed on antibiotics. What comfort measure should the nurse recommend?
- A. Apply cold compresses as ordered.
- B. Avoid wearing a bra until the infection clears.
- C. Avoid washing the breasts.
- D. Perform gentle massage to stimulate neutrophil migration.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cold compresses help relieve discomfort in acute mastitis by reducing inflammation. A snug bra supports the breast, hygiene is essential, and massage is not recommended as it may worsen the condition.
A woman calls the clinic and tells the nurse she has had bloody drainage from her right nipple. The nurse makes an appointment for this patient, expecting the physician or practitioner to order what diagnostic test on this patient?
- A. Breast ultrasound
- B. Radiography
- C. Positron emission testing (PET)
- D. Galactography
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Galactography, involving contrast injection into the ductal system followed by mammography, is used to evaluate bloody nipple discharge for ductal abnormalities. Ultrasound, radiography, and PET are not specific for this indication.