Question

A male client with suspected lung cancer tells the nurse that he does not want to have a schedules biopsy performed, and states, "They already found the cancer when I had my chest x-ray." Which action should the nurse implement?

Answer 1

The nurse should explain to the male client that a chest X-ray alone is not sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis of lung cancer. A biopsy is needed to confirm whether the abnormalities found in the X-ray are cancerous. The nurse should emphasize the importance of getting further diagnostic tests.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the information provided, the nurse should explain to the male client that a chest X-ray alone is not sufficient to make a definitive diagnosis of lung cancer. It can show abnormalities in the lungs, such as nodules or masses, but a biopsy is needed to confirm whether these abnormalities are cancerous. A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample from the lungs and examining it under a microscope.

By refusing the biopsy, the client may be delaying a proper diagnosis and potentially missing out on early treatment options. The nurse should emphasize the importance of getting further diagnostic tests to determine the extent and nature of the lung abnormalities.