A female patient is recovering from breast cancer surgery that ...

[wenmo]

A female patient is recovering from breast cancer surgery that included axillary node dissection. The nurse realizes that this patient will need education regarding the potential development of which complication?
 
  1. lymphedema
  2. metastasis
  3. anemia and bleeding
  4. altered shoulder movement

Question 2

During a routine patient admission history, a patient reports light bleeding between her menstrual periods. What initial action by the nurse is most appropriate?
 
  1. determining the timing of the bleeding episodes
  2. determining the amount of bleeding
  3. assessing for the presence of sexually transmitted infections
  4. reviewing the length of the patient's normal menstrual cycles

[mcarey591]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Axillary node dissection is generally performed during surgery for all invasive breast carcinomas to stage the tumor. This surgery can cause lymphedema. Removal of the lymph nodes does not increase risk of metastasis, anemia, or bleeding. Range of motion exercises should be performed on the affected arm to help develop collateral lymph drainage.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1
Bleeding between menstrual cycles could have several causes. Light bleeding and Mittelschmerz (mild abdominal pain) can occur with midcycle ovulation and are normal in many women. It is most important to identify the timing of the bleeding to determine the underlying cause. Assessment of the amount of bleeding is next in importance. There is no indication the patient has a sexually transmitted infection. The length of the menstrual cycle is a part of the data collected but is not of the greatest importance.

[wenmo]

Correct answers!

[mcarey591]

Great! Please up vote