The nurse is taking a history of a 68-year-old woman. What ...

[scienceeasy]

The nurse is taking a history of a 68-year-old woman. What assessment findings would indicate a high risk for the development of breast cancer? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Age greater than 65 years
  b. Increased breast density
  c. Osteoporosis
  d. Multiparity
  e. Genetic factors

Question 2

A woman diagnosed with breast cancer had these laboratory tests performed at an office visit:
 
  Alkaline phosphatase
  125 U/L
  Total calcium
  12 mg/dL
  Hematocrit
  39
  Hemoglobin
  14 g/dL
  Which test results indicate to the nurse that some further diagnostics are needed?
  a.
  Elevated alkaline phosphatase and calcium suggests bone involvement.
  b.
  Only alkaline phosphatase is decreased, suggesting liver metastasis.
  c.
  Hematocrit and hemoglobin are decreased, indicating anemia.
  d.
  The elevated hematocrit and hemoglobin indicate dehydration.

[coreycathey]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, B, E
The high risk factors for breast cancer are age greater than 65 with the risk increasing until age 80; an increase in breast density because of more glandular and connective tissue; and inherited mutations of BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 genes. Osteoporosis and multiparity are not risk factors for breast cancer. A high postmenopausal bone density and nulliparity are moderate and low increased risk factors, respectively.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The alkaline phosphatase (normal value 30 to 120 U/L) and total calcium (normal value 9 to 10.5 mg/dL) levels are both elevated, suggesting bone metastasis. Both the hematocrit and hemoglobin are within normal limits for females.