Final answer:
The best response to a patient awaiting biopsy results for a potential cancer diagnosis is to assure them that their doctor will discuss treatment options with them once results are available.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most appropriate nursing response to a patient who asks, "what am I going to do if this is cancer?" after undergoing a biopsy for a possible esophageal tumor is option c: "The doctor will go over the options with you." This response is professional, does not presuppose the pathology results, and acknowledges that a clear plan and treatment options will be discussed once a diagnosis is confirmed.
A biopsy is essential for diagnosing cancer, as it allows a pathologist to examine the tissue microscopically. If it is determined that the tissue contains cancerous cells, the patient's doctor will discuss the best course of action, which may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of treatments, depending on multiple factors including the stage and type of cancer.
In the case of swallowing radioactive material and assessing the possible damage, important information would include the type and amount of radioactive material ingested, the individual's general health, and the presence of any immediate symptoms. Similarly, patients undergoing diagnostic tests that involve radiation, such as CT scans, weigh the benefits of the test against the potential risks of exposure to radiation, which in high doses over time, can contribute to the development of cancer cells.
The correct answer is c. "The doctor will go over the options with you."