Cancer Pathophysiology, Screening, Treatments, and CNA Care

What is cancer?

Cancer is characterized by the abnormal, uncontrolled growth and division of cells within the body.

What is the second leading cause of death in the United States?

Cancer.

What are benign tumors?

Non-cancerous cellular growths that grow slowly and remain localized.

What are malignant tumors?

Cancerous cellular growths that invade surrounding tissues and can metastasize.

Name a common type of skin cancer.

Skin cancer originates in cutaneous tissue layers.

What type of cancer affects the lungs?

Lung cancer affects pulmonary tissues and airways.

What is breast cancer?

Malignant proliferation within mammary gland tissues.

What is colon cancer?

Malignancy localized in the large intestine.

What are leukemia and lymphoma?

Hematologic and lymphatic malignancies impacting blood cells and the lymphatic system.

What is a major risk factor for developing cancer?

Age is the single biggest risk factor.

How do genetics influence cancer risk?

Familial predisposition; cancer patterns frequently run in biological families.

What lifestyle factors can increase cancer risk?

Unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption.

What does the 'C' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic stand for?

Change in bowel or bladder habits.

What is the purpose of a mammogram?

To detect breast cancer early through radiographic imaging.

What is a biopsy?

Tissue extraction and microscopic examination to confirm a cancer diagnosis.

What is the mechanism of chemotherapy?

Pharmacological administration of cytotoxic agents to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells.

What are common side effects of chemotherapy?

Nausea, profound fatigue, and alopecia (hair loss).

What is the goal of palliative care?

To provide symptom relief and resident comfort rather than curative intervention.

What should be done for residents experiencing nausea and vomiting?

Support nutritional intake and attend to gastrointestinal comfort.

What are signs that require immediate nursing notification?

Reports of pain, persistent nausea, mouth sores, and elevated temperature.

How should CNAs support residents with a new cancer diagnosis?

By validating emotional responses and offering empathetic listening.

What is a core responsibility of a CNA in cancer care?

To observe, report new findings, and provide comprehensive bedside support.

What is the role of lifestyle influences in cancer prevention?

Maintaining a nutritious diet and regular exercise can help prevent cancer.

What does the 'A' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic stand for?

A sore that does not heal.

What does the 'U' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic represent?

Unusual bleeding or discharge.

What does the 'T' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic indicate?

Thickening or lump in tissue.

What does the 'I' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic refer to?

Indigestion or trouble swallowing.

What does the 'O' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic signify?

Obvious change in the appearance of a mole or wart.

What does the 'N' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic stand for?

Nagging cough or persistent hoarseness.

What does the 'S' in the CAUTIONS mnemonic represent?

Sudden, unexplained weight loss.