Final answer:
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. It can metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body, which is assessed using grading and staging. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, while preventative measures involve early diagnosis via screening and recognizing early warning signs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cancer Overview and Treatments
Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow out of control. When cancer cells travel from their original location to a new place in the body, this is called metastasis. The acronym Change in bowel or bladder habits, A sore that does not heal, Unusual bleeding or discharge, Thickening or lump in breast or elsewhere, Indigestion or difficulty swallowing, Obvious change in wart or mole, and Nagging cough or hoarseness (CAUTION) is often used to describe the warning signs of cancer.
Grading refers to how much cancer cells look like healthy cells when viewed under a microscope, indicating how quickly the cells may grow and spread. Staging, on the other hand, is the process of determining the extent of cancer in the body, including its size and whether it has spread. This helps determine the best course of treatment and prognosis.
The three types of radiation treatment for cancer include external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy (internal radiation), and systemic radiation therapy. While receiving radiation therapy, precautions must include limiting exposure to others, especially pregnant women and young children, and handling bodily fluids with care. The most dangerous type of radiation is ionizing radiation due to its high energy and potential to cause significant damage to cells.
If a patient's sealed internal radiation implant falls out, the nurse should follow radiation safety protocols, which generally include not touching the radioactive material directly and notifying the radiation safety officer immediately. During chemotherapy, medications such as antiemetics are given to reduce nausea. Neupogen (filgrastim) is a medication used to stimulate the production of white blood cells to fight infection in patients undergoing certain cancer treatments.
The best time to perform a breast self-exam is about a week after one's menstrual period starts, as breasts are less likely to be swollen or tender. For testicular self-exam, the best time is after a warm bath or shower when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Post-mastectomy, patients should not perform rigorous activities with the affected arm to prevent lymphedema and are educated on exercises to promote healing and arm function.