Case Study 3- Cancer Flashcards
What is cancer?
A group of diseases
Characterised by abnormal cell growth
which can spread to different locations of the body
What are the risk factors of cancer?
(Modifiable and non modifiable)
Tobacco
Body weight
Physical activity
diet
alcohol consumption
hormones
UV radiation- sunlight
Occupational carcinogens (asbestos, benzene, pesticides)
Infectious agents
Medical treatment
Pollution Genetic factors
What are the red-flag symptoms of cancer?
Extreme weightless that is unexplainable
Lumps in breasts/armpits, groin, testicals- that are increasing in size
Blood in ruin, vomit, stools, cough
shortness of breath
Tummy discomfort
Explain the TNM system
Used to determine the stages of cancer
T- Primary tumour
N - Regional lymph node
M= Metastasise
Stage 0= tumour in one place
Stage I-III =Large number indicates more extensive disease
Stage IV = The cancer has spreads to distant tissues or organs
Why do we give chemotherapy in cycles?
- Allows healthy cells to recover from drug side effects
- Increases the chances that all cancer cells will be eliminated
What are the issues with chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting
which can:
Delay treatment
affect electrolyte balance
Dose reduction
Additional adminission
Physical effects such as weight loss
What is neutropenic sepsis?
Absolute neutrophil count <0.5 x10^9/L
What are the signs and symptoms of neutropenic sepsis?
Temp >38 degrees
- any signs of sepsis and neutropenic sepsis
What is used to treat neutropenic sepsis?
Tazocin 4.5 g IV QDS
What should be monitored?
FBC
CRP
LACTATE
What should be observed?
BP
HR
Temp
RR
What are the side effects of chemotherapy?
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Increased risk of infection
Anaemia
Loss of appetite
