Pathophysiology of the renal system > Pathophysiology
Exam Review
Renal Cancers
Total Questions : 35
Showing 35 questions, Sign in for moreA client recently diagnosed with renal cancer asks the nurse about the function of the kidneys. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While the kidneys play a role in maintaining blood glucose levels, their primary function is to filter waste products and excess substances from the blood.
B) Correct. One of the primary functions of the kidneys is to filter waste products, excess substances, and toxins from the blood, helping to maintain overall homeostasis.
C) Incorrect. The production of digestive enzymes is not a primary function of the kidneys.
D) Incorrect. While the kidneys do play a role in regulating blood pressure, their primary function is related to filtration and waste removal.
A nurse is explaining risk factors for renal cancer to a client. Which of the following should the nurse include?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Smoking is indeed associated with an increased risk of renal cancer, so it is an important risk factor to consider.
B) Correct. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and obesity are recognized risk factors for the development of renal cancer.
C) Incorrect. Physical activity and a balanced diet can influence the risk of renal cancer. Regular exercise and a healthy diet may help reduce the risk.
D) Incorrect. Genetics and family history can contribute to the development of renal cancer. It's important to consider these factors in assessing risk.
A client with a family history of renal cancer asks the nurse about screening recommendations. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Individuals with a family history of renal cancer may require special screening to detect any potential early signs of the disease.
B) Incorrect. While monitoring blood pressure is important for overall health, it is not the primary screening method for renal cancer in those with a family history.
C) Correct. For individuals with a family history of renal cancer, annual imaging studies such as ultrasounds or CT scans are recommended to monitor for any potential signs of the disease.
D) Incorrect. Genetic testing may be considered in some cases, but it is not the primary screening method for renal cancer in individuals with a family history.
A nurse is educating a client about the potential signs and symptoms of renal cancer. What should the nurse include?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Pain in the chest and shortness of breath are not typical symptoms of renal cancer. They may be indicative of other conditions.
B) Correct. Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a common symptom of renal cancer. It occurs due to bleeding from the tumor.
C) Incorrect. Excessive thirst and frequent urination are not characteristic signs of renal cancer. They may be related to other conditions.
D) Incorrect. Significant weight gain and bloating are not typical symptoms of renal cancer. They may be associated with other health issues.
A client diagnosed with renal cancer asks the nurse about the potential spread of the disease. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Correct. Renal cancer can metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body, commonly to the lungs and bones.
B) Incorrect. Renal cancer has the potential to spread beyond the kidneys, particularly to other organs and tissues.
C) Incorrect. Renal cancer can spread to both nearby and distant organs and tissues, not just nearby ones.
D) Incorrect. Renal cancer does have the potential to metastasize, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body. It is not strictly localized to the kidneys.
A client asks the nurse about potential risk factors for renal cancer. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Consuming a diet high in fruits and vegetables is generally associated with a reduced risk of various cancers, including renal cancer.
B) Correct. Tobacco use and exposure to certain chemicals, such as asbestos, organic solvents, and heavy metals, are known risk factors for the development of renal cancer.
C) Incorrect. Engaging in regular physical activity can actually help reduce the risk of renal cancer, along with providing other health benefits.
D) Incorrect. Family history and genetics can indeed contribute to the development of renal cancer. It's important to consider these factors in assessing risk.
A nurse is discussing risk factors for renal cancer with a client. Which of the following should the nurse include?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Renal cancer is associated with specific risk factors, and it's important to educate clients about them.
B) Correct. Chronic kidney disease is considered a potential risk factor for the development of renal cancer.
C) Incorrect. Consuming a diet high in fiber is generally associated with a reduced risk of various cancers, including renal cancer.
D) Incorrect. Regular exercise and physical activity can help reduce the risk of renal cancer, along with providing other health benefits.
A client with a family history of renal cancer asks the nurse about potential risk factors. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Having a family history of renal cancer can increase the risk of developing the disease.
B) Correct. Genetics and family history are recognized risk factors for the development of renal cancer.
C) Incorrect. While sunlight and UV radiation are associated with skin cancers, they are not primary risk factors for renal cancer.
D) Incorrect. Dietary factors can influence the risk of various cancers, including renal cancer. It's important to consider them in assessing risk.
A nurse is educating a group of individuals about occupational risk factors for renal cancer. What should the nurse include?
Explanation
A) Correct. Occupational exposure to certain chemicals and substances, such as asbestos, organic solvents, and heavy metals, can increase the risk of developing renal cancer.
B) Incorrect. Occupational risk factors, particularly exposure to specific chemicals and substances, can indeed impact the risk of renal cancer.
C) Incorrect. Working in an office environment is not a recognized occupational risk factor for renal cancer.
D) Incorrect. Occupational factors can influence the risk of various cancers, including renal cancer, not just lung cancer.
A client asks the nurse about the primary type of cells from which renal cancers typically originate. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Renal cancers do not typically originate from nerve cells.
B) Correct. Renal cell carcinoma, the most common type of renal cancer, arises from the epithelial cells lining the renal tubules.
C) Incorrect. Renal cancers do not develop from muscle cells within the kidney.
D) Incorrect. Renal cancers do not primarily arise from blood cells in the kidney.
A nurse is explaining the pathophysiology of renal cancers to a client. What is a key factor in the development of renal cell carcinoma?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Excessive production of insulin within the kidney is not a key factor in the development of renal cell carcinoma.
B) Correct. Renal cell carcinoma typically arises due to mutations in the DNA of renal cells, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors.
C) Incorrect. Abnormalities in the bone marrow do not directly affect kidney function or contribute to the development of renal cell carcinoma.
D) Incorrect. Decreased blood flow to the kidneys can lead to kidney damage, but it is not a primary factor in the development of renal cell carcinoma.
A nurse is explaining the pathophysiology of renal cancers to a client. What is a key factor in the development of renal cell carcinoma?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Excessive production of insulin within the kidney is not a key factor in the development of renal cell carcinoma.
B) Correct. Renal cell carcinoma typically arises due to mutations in the DNA of renal cells, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors.
C) Incorrect. Abnormalities in the bone marrow do not directly affect kidney function or contribute to the development of renal cell carcinoma.
D) Incorrect. Decreased blood flow to the kidneys can lead to kidney damage, but it is not a primary factor in the development of renal cell carcinoma.
A client asks the nurse how renal cancers spread to other parts of the body. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Correct. Renal cancers, particularly renal cell carcinoma, often spread through the bloodstream to distant organs, a process known as metastasis.
B) Incorrect. While direct invasion of neighboring tissues and organs can occur, metastasis through the bloodstream is a common route of spread for renal cancers.
C) Incorrect. Renal cancers do have the capacity to spread to other parts of the body, primarily through the bloodstream.
D) Incorrect. While lymphatic spread can occur, renal cancers often spread primarily through the bloodstream.
A nurse is discussing the role of the immune system in combating renal cancers with a client. What is a characteristic of renal cell carcinoma in relation to the immune response?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Renal cell carcinoma does not typically lead to rapid tumor regression due to its ability to evade the immune system.
B) Correct. Renal cell carcinoma has mechanisms that allow it to evade the immune system, which can make it challenging for the body to mount an effective response against the cancer.
C) Incorrect. Renal cell carcinoma does interact with the immune system, but it can evade immune surveillance to some extent.
D) Incorrect. The immune system's response to renal cell carcinoma is not limited to the kidney, as it can involve various components of the immune system throughout the body.
A client asks the nurse about the role of genetics in the development of renal cancers. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Genetics do play a role in the development of renal cancers, particularly certain genetic mutations.
B) Correct. Certain genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing renal cell carcinoma, highlighting the importance of genetic factors in assessing risk.
C) Incorrect. Genetic factors can influence various aspects of renal cancers, including their development and progression, not just their size.
D) Incorrect. Genetics influence various aspects of renal cancers, but they do not solely determine the location of the cancer within the kidney.
A client experiencing weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain asks the nurse about the possible signs of renal cancer. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain can be associated with renal cancer, and it's important for the client to seek medical evaluation.
B) Correct. Weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain can be signs of renal cancer. It's crucial for the client to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and testing.
C) Incorrect. While these symptoms can occur in aging adults, they can also be indicative of various health conditions, including cancer.
D) Incorrect. Weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain can be associated with renal cancer, and it's important for the client to seek medical evaluation.
A nurse is assessing a client suspected of having renal cancer. What urinary symptom is commonly associated with renal cell carcinoma?
Explanation
A) Correct. Hematuria, or the presence of blood in the urine, is a common urinary symptom associated with renal cell carcinoma.
B) Incorrect. Urinary retention is not a typical urinary symptom of renal cell carcinoma.
C) Incorrect. While changes in urinary frequency can occur in various conditions, it is not a specific symptom associated with renal cell carcinoma.
D) Incorrect. Urinary incontinence is not a typical symptom of renal cell carcinoma.
A client reports experiencing back pain that doesn't seem related to any specific injury or strain. The client asks the nurse if this could be a sign of renal cancer. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Back pain can be associated with renal cancer, especially if there are other concerning symptoms present.
B) Correct. Back pain can have various causes, but it's important to consider the possibility of renal cancer, especially if there are other concerning symptoms like weight loss and hematuria.
C) Incorrect. While musculoskeletal issues can cause back pain, it's important to consider other potential causes, including conditions like renal cancer.
D) Incorrect. The severity of pain alone does not necessarily rule out the possibility of a serious underlying condition like renal cancer.
A nurse is educating a client about potential signs of advanced renal cancer. Which systemic symptom is often associated with advanced stages of renal cell carcinoma?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Hyperactivity and restlessness are not typical systemic symptoms associated with advanced stages of renal cell carcinoma.
B) Incorrect. Profuse sweating and fever are not typically associated with advanced stages of renal cell carcinoma.
C) Correct. Unexplained weight loss and fatigue are common systemic symptoms associated with advanced stages of renal cell carcinoma.
D) Incorrect. Increased appetite and weight gain are not typical systemic symptoms associated with advanced stages of renal cell carcinoma.
A client asks the nurse about the possibility of having renal cancer due to experiencing swelling in the lower extremities. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Swelling in the lower extremities can be associated with advanced stages of renal cancer, and it's important for the client to seek medical evaluation.
B) Correct. Swelling in the lower extremities can be a sign of advanced renal cancer, and it's crucial for the client to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and testing.
C) Incorrect. While swelling in the lower extremities can be related to heart conditions, it can also be associated with other health conditions, including cancer.
D) Incorrect. The presence or absence of pain does not definitively rule out the possibility of a serious underlying condition like advanced renal cancer.
A client asks the nurse about the diagnostic tests for renal cancer. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While a CT scan is an important imaging test for diagnosing renal cancer, it is not the only test needed. Other imaging modalities and a biopsy may also be required.
B) Correct. The diagnosis of renal cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds, along with a biopsy for confirmation.
C) Incorrect. Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose renal cancer. They can provide supportive information, but imaging tests and biopsy are usually required for a conclusive diagnosis.
D) Incorrect. While a physical examination and medical history are important components of the diagnostic process, they alone are not sufficient for diagnosing renal cancer. Imaging tests and biopsy are typically needed.
A nurse is preparing a client for a renal cancer diagnostic procedure. The client asks about the purpose of a renal ultrasound. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Correct. A renal ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that helps visualize the structures of the kidney. It can detect tumors, cysts, and other abnormalities.
B) Incorrect. While a renal ultrasound is important for assessing the kidney, it is not typically used to confirm metastases in other organs. Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs are more suitable for that purpose.
C) Incorrect. While a renal ultrasound can detect tumors within the kidney, it is not used for direct biopsy. Biopsy procedures are separate and may be performed if a tumor is detected.
D) Incorrect. While a renal ultrasound provides information about kidney structure, it is not primarily used to assess blood flow or kidney function. Other tests like Doppler ultrasound or renal scintigraphy may be used for that purpose.
A client diagnosed with renal cancer is scheduled for a CT scan. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this test. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While CT scans may be used to monitor treatment progress, their primary purpose in renal cancer diagnosis is to provide detailed images of the kidneys and surrounding structures.
B) Correct. A CT scan is a valuable imaging tool for assessing the size, location, and extent of a renal tumor. It provides detailed images that aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
C) Incorrect. A CT scan is not used for direct sampling and analysis of cancerous tissue within the kidney. Biopsy procedures are performed separately for that purpose.
D) Incorrect. While a CT scan provides anatomical information, it is not primarily used to assess blood flow or kidney function. Other tests may be employed for those purposes.
A nurse is explaining the purpose of a biopsy to a client suspected of having renal cancer. What is the primary goal of a renal biopsy?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. The primary goal of a renal biopsy is to obtain a tissue sample for microscopic examination, not to remove the entire tumor.
B) Correct. A renal biopsy is performed to obtain a tissue sample from the kidney, which is then examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer and provide further information about the type and grade of the tumor.
C) Incorrect. Assessing blood flow within the kidney is not the primary purpose of a renal biopsy. Other tests may be used for that purpose.
D) Incorrect. Evaluating kidney function is not the primary goal of a renal biopsy. There are other tests and assessments specifically designed for evaluating kidney function.
A client diagnosed with renal cancer asks the nurse about the purpose of a bone scan. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A bone scan is not used for direct visualization and biopsy of tumors in the bones. It is an imaging test for identifying abnormalities in bone metabolism.
B) Incorrect. While a bone scan provides information about bone metabolism, it is not primarily performed to assess blood flow within the bones.
C) Correct. A bone scan is used to detect whether cancer has spread (metastasized) to the bones. This information is crucial for staging the cancer and planning appropriate treatment.
D) Incorrect
. While a bone scan provides information about bone health, its primary purpose is to identify abnormalities related to bone metabolism, such as metastases from cancer.
A client recently diagnosed with renal cancer asks the nurse about treatment options. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Correct. Surgery is the primary treatment for renal cancer, and the extent of the procedure may involve removing part (partial nephrectomy) or all (radical nephrectomy) of the affected kidney.
B) Incorrect. While chemotherapy may be used in some cases, it is not the main treatment for renal cancer. Other treatments, such as surgery or targeted therapy, are often more effective.
C) Incorrect. Radiation therapy is not typically the first-line treatment for renal cancer. It may be used in certain situations, but surgery is usually the initial approach.
D) Incorrect. Hormone therapy is not a standard treatment for renal cancer. It is more commonly used for cancers influenced by hormonal factors, such as some types of breast or prostate cancer.
A nurse is providing preoperative education to a client scheduled for a nephrectomy as part of renal cancer treatment. What information should the nurse include?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. It is important for the client to understand that they will have restrictions on activities after a nephrectomy. Resuming normal activities immediately without any restrictions would not be accurate.
B) Correct. After a nephrectomy, clients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks to promote healing and prevent complications.
C) Incorrect. Postoperative follow-up care is essential after a nephrectomy. The client will likely have scheduled appointments for monitoring recovery and addressing any concerns.
D) Incorrect. While pain relief will be provided, it may not be immediate, and the client should be prepared for some discomfort after surgery.
A client with renal cancer is scheduled for targeted therapy. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this treatment. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While targeted therapy may provide some relief from cancer-related symptoms, its primary purpose is to target cancer cells at the molecular level.
B) Correct. Targeted therapy is designed to target specific molecular features of cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and spread while minimizing damage to normal cells.
C) Incorrect. Targeted therapy is not primarily focused on strengthening the immune system. It is a distinct form of treatment that acts directly on cancer cells.
D) Incorrect. Targeted therapy is not a form of radiation treatment. It involves the use of drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth.
A nurse is providing postoperative care to a client who underwent a radical nephrectomy for renal cancer. What is a priority nursing intervention for this client?
Explanation
A) Correct. Monitoring vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate, is a priority after a radical nephrectomy. Changes in blood pressure or heart rate can indicate potential complications.
B) Incorrect. Administering chemotherapy medications is not typically part of the immediate postoperative care for a radical nephrectomy.
C) Incorrect. Encouraging vigorous physical activity is not recommended immediately after a radical nephrectomy. The client will need time to recover and gradually resume normal activities.
D) Incorrect. Providing a high-sodium diet is not typically indicated after a radical nephrectomy. The client's diet will be based on their specific needs and any potential dietary restrictions.
A client with renal cancer is prescribed immunotherapy. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this treatment. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Correct. Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's immune system, enabling it to recognize and target cancer cells more effectively.
B) Incorrect. Immunotherapy does not directly target and destroy cancer cells; instead, it boosts the body's natural defenses against cancer.
C) Incorrect. Immunotherapy is not a form of radiation treatment. It is a distinct type of treatment that harnesses the immune system's power.
D) Incorrect. Immunotherapy is not primarily used to treat cancer-related pain and discomfort. Its main purpose is to enhance the body's ability to fight cancer.
A nurse is caring for a client with renal cancer who has just returned from surgery. What is the priority nursing intervention for this client at this time?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While pain management is important, assessing the surgical incision for signs of infection takes priority to ensure early detection and intervention.
B) Correct. Assessing the surgical incision is a priority to monitor for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and prevention of complications.
C) Incorrect. While ambulation is important for postoperative recovery, assessing the incision for signs of infection takes precedence.
D) Incorrect. Offering a full meal may not be appropriate immediately after surgery. The client's dietary intake should be assessed, and they may start with lighter foods as tolerated.
A client with renal cancer asks the nurse about strategies to manage fatigue during treatment. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. While regular exercise is beneficial, it should be balanced with rest, especially if the client is experiencing fatigue.
B) Incorrect. Long naps during the day may disrupt the client's sleep pattern at night. Short, well-timed naps may be more effective.
C) Correct. Conserving energy by prioritizing activities and taking rest breaks can help manage fatigue. This allows the client to allocate energy for essential tasks and rest when needed.
D) Incorrect. Increasing caffeine intake is not a sustainable or recommended strategy for managing fatigue. It may lead to disrupted sleep patterns and other negative effects.
A nurse is providing education to a client with renal cancer who will undergo radiation therapy. What should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation
A) Correct. Skin changes, such as redness or irritation, are common side effects of radiation therapy. Applying moisturizer can help soothe discomfort and minimize skin-related issues.
B) Incorrect. While a balanced diet is important, there is no specific evidence to suggest that a high-protein diet specifically boosts the effects of radiation therapy.
C) Incorrect. Maintaining physical activity within recommended guidelines can be beneficial during radiation therapy. However, the client should avoid excessive or strenuous activities.
D) Incorrect. Pain relief from radiation therapy may not be immediate, and the client should be prepared for some discomfort during and after the sessions.
A client with renal cancer asks the nurse about the importance of hydration during treatment. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. Hydration is important during cancer treatment to help support the body's response to treatment and manage side effects. It is not advisable to dismiss its importance.
B) Correct. Staying well-hydrated is crucial during cancer treatment to support the body's response to therapy and minimize potential side effects, such as nausea and fatigue.
C) Incorrect. While there may be specific cases where fluid intake needs to be monitored, limiting hydration in general is not advisable, especially during cancer treatment.
D) Incorrect. It is important for the client to stay hydrated throughout the day, not just immediately before and after treatment sessions.
A client diagnosed with renal cancer asks the nurse about the purpose of a bone scan. How should the nurse respond?
Explanation
A) Incorrect. A bone scan is not used for direct visualization and biopsy of tumors in the bones. It is an imaging test for identifying abnormalities in bone metabolism.
B) Incorrect. While a bone scan provides information about bone metabolism, it is not primarily performed to assess blood flow within the bones.
C) Correct. A bone scan is used to detect whether cancer has spread (metastasized) to the bones. This information is crucial for staging the cancer and planning appropriate treatment.
D) Incorrect. While a bone scan provides information about bone health, its primary purpose is to identify abnormalities related to bone metabolism, such as metastases from cancer.
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