Pathophysiology of the integumentary system > Pharmacology
Exam Review
Skin Cancer: Melanoma; Basal cell carcinoma; Squamous cell carcinoma
Total Questions : 15
Showing 15 questions, Sign in for moreA nurse is educating a group of patients about the risk factors associated with skin cancer. Which statement accurately identifies a risk factor for melanoma?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Having a family history of melanoma increases your risk.
This statement is accurate.
Melanoma has a genetic component, and individuals with a family history of melanoma are at a higher risk of developing the disease.
Mutations in certain genes, such as CDKN2A and CDK4, have been associated with familial melanoma, supporting the role of genetics in melanoma risk.
Choice B rationale:
Chronic sun exposure is a significant risk factor.
This statement is also accurate.
Prolonged and excessive sun exposure, especially without adequate sun protection, is a well-established risk factor for melanoma.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells and increase the likelihood of melanoma development.
Choice C rationale:
Exposure to certain chemicals is the primary cause.
This statement is incorrect.
While exposure to certain chemicals can contribute to the development of various cancers, including skin cancer, they are not the primary cause of melanoma.
UV radiation from the sun and genetic factors play a more significant role in melanoma development.
Choice D rationale:
Weakened immune system is unrelated to melanoma risk.
This statement is inaccurate.
A weakened immune system can indeed increase the risk of melanoma.
Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients taking immunosuppressive medications, have a higher risk of developing melanoma because their immune system may be less effective at detecting and controlling cancerous cells.
A client with a fair complexion is concerned about skin cancer. Which statement by the client reflects a correct understanding of the risk factors for basal cell carcinoma?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Chronic sun exposure is not a risk factor for basal cell carcinoma.
This statement is incorrect.
Chronic sun exposure is a well-established risk factor for basal cell carcinoma (BCC).
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to the development of BCC.
Choice B rationale:
Family history of skin cancer does not increase the risk.
This statement is inaccurate.
A family history of skin cancer, including BCC, can increase an individual's risk of developing the condition.
Genetic factors can play a role in susceptibility to BCC.
Choice C rationale:
History of sunburns is unrelated to basal cell carcinoma risk.
This statement is accurate.
While chronic sun exposure is a risk factor for BCC, a history of sunburns, particularly severe or blistering sunburns, is not directly linked to BCC risk.
However, it is essential to note that sunburns can increase the risk of other types of skin cancer, such as melanoma.
Choice D rationale:
Exposure to certain chemicals is not associated with the condition.
This statement is incorrect.
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic and some industrial chemicals, has been associated with an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma.
Chemical exposure can be a contributing factor, but it is not the sole cause of BCC.
A nurse is assessing a patient with possible skin cancer. Select all the clinical presentations that are commonly associated with squamous cell carcinoma.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Presence of atypical moles.
This statement is not commonly associated with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
Atypical moles are more commonly associated with melanoma, not SCC.
Choice B rationale:
Chronic sun exposure.
This statement is accurate.
Chronic sun exposure is a significant risk factor for SCC.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage skin cells and increase the risk of SCC development.
Choice C rationale:
Weakened immune system.
This statement is accurate.
A weakened immune system is commonly associated with an increased risk of SCC.
Conditions that compromise the immune system, such as organ transplantation or certain autoimmune diseases, can elevate the risk of SCC.
Choice D rationale:
History of severe blistering sunburns.
This statement is also accurate.
A history of severe blistering sunburns is a risk factor for SCC.
Intense sunburns can damage the skin and increase the likelihood of SCC development.
Choice E rationale:
Exposure to certain chemicals.
This statement is less commonly associated with SCC.
While chemical exposures can contribute to various cancers, including skin cancer, SCC is primarily linked to chronic sun exposure and immune system suppression.
A client is diagnosed with melanoma and is discussing treatment options with the healthcare provider. Which treatment modality primarily targets melanocytes?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Radiation therapy.
Radiation therapy is not the primary treatment modality for melanoma.
While it may be used in some cases, such as adjuvant therapy after surgery, it does not primarily target melanocytes.
Choice B rationale:
Chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy may be used for advanced melanoma, but it is not the primary treatment modality for targeting melanocytes.
Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells and is generally less effective against melanoma compared to other treatments.
Choice C rationale:
Surgical excision.
This statement is accurate.
Surgical excision is the primary treatment modality for melanoma.
It involves the removal of the melanoma and some surrounding tissue to ensure complete removal of cancerous cells.
This procedure directly targets the melanocytes within the tumor.
Choice D rationale:
Immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy is an important treatment option for melanoma, especially in advanced cases.
However, it does not primarily target melanocytes but rather stimulates the patient's immune system to recognize and attack melanoma cells.
A nurse is planning interventions for a patient with basal cell carcinoma. Which nursing intervention is appropriate for this patient?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Apply sunscreen with a high SPF regularly.
This statement is appropriate for a patient with basal cell carcinoma (BCC).
Sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) can help protect the skin from further UV radiation damage and reduce the risk of additional skin cancers, including BCC.
Choice B rationale:
Administer chemotherapy as prescribed.
Chemotherapy is not a primary treatment for BCC.
Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment for BCC, and chemotherapy is typically reserved for advanced or metastatic cases of other types of cancer.
Choice C rationale:
Recommend radiation therapy for treatment.
Radiation therapy may be considered in some cases of BCC, but it is not typically the first-line treatment.
Surgical excision is the primary treatment choice for BCC, and radiation therapy may be used when surgery is not feasible.
Choice D rationale:
Encourage the patient to avoid atypical moles.
While it is essential to monitor and address any atypical moles or skin changes, this statement does not directly relate to the treatment of BCC.
BCC is primarily treated through surgical removal and other targeted therapies, not by avoiding atypical moles.
A nurse is assessing a client's skin for potential signs of skin cancer. Which of the following clinical presentations should the nurse consider as indicative of melanoma?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I have noticed some open sores on my skin that don't seem to heal." This statement may indicate a potential issue with wound healing, but it is not specific to melanoma.
Open sores that don't heal can be associated with various skin conditions, including basal cell carcinoma or non-cancerous issues.
It does not provide strong evidence of melanoma.
Choice B rationale:
"My moles have been changing in size and color." This statement is indicative of melanoma.
Melanoma often presents as changes in the size, shape, color, or appearance of existing moles.
Such changes are a key warning sign of melanoma, and individuals are advised to monitor their moles for any alterations.
Choice C rationale:
"I have red, scaly patches on my skin." Red, scaly patches are more commonly associated with other skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, rather than melanoma.
While skin changes can occur with melanoma, they are typically related to moles.
Choice D rationale:
"I have pink growths with raised edges." Pink growths with raised edges are more characteristic of basal cell carcinoma rather than melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma often presents as pearly or pinkish growths with raised borders.
Melanoma typically involves moles and exhibits different characteristics.
A client is describing their skin changes to a nurse. Which statement by the client raises concern for possible basal cell carcinoma?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"My moles have been changing in size and color." Similar to , this statement is indicative of melanoma, not basal cell carcinoma.
Changes in the size, shape, color, or appearance of moles should raise concern for melanoma.
Choice B rationale:
"I have noticed some open sores on my skin that don't seem to heal." This statement is more suggestive of basal cell carcinoma, which can present as non-healing sores or ulcers.
It is not specific to melanoma.
Choice C rationale:
"I have red, scaly patches on my skin." Red, scaly patches are not typical of basal cell carcinoma.
This symptom is more commonly associated with other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
Choice D rationale:
"I have shiny bumps on my skin." Shiny bumps on the skin are a common presentation of basal cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as pearly or shiny nodules or bumps on the skin.
A nurse is educating a group of patients about skin cancer risk factors. Which factors should the nurse include in the discussion? Select all that apply.
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Family history of diabetes." Family history of diabetes is not a known risk factor for skin cancer.
It is important to focus on factors related to skin cancer risk when educating patients.
Choice B rationale:
"Fair skin." Fair skin is a significant risk factor for skin cancer, particularly for non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Fair-skinned individuals have less melanin, which provides less protection against UV radiation.
Choice C rationale:
"History of sun exposure." A history of sun exposure, especially excessive or unprotected sun exposure, is a well-established risk factor for skin cancer.
UV radiation from the sun can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer development.
Choice D rationale:
"Regular exercise." Regular exercise is not a known risk factor for skin cancer.
It is important for overall health but does not directly contribute to the development of skin cancer.
Choice E rationale:
"High cholesterol levels." High cholesterol levels are not a known risk factor for skin cancer.
While cholesterol is a concern for cardiovascular health, it is not associated with skin cancer risk.
A nurse is providing care to a client with squamous cell carcinoma. Which treatment options should the nurse anticipate discussing with the client? .
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"We can perform surgical excision to remove the affected area." Surgical excision is a common treatment option for squamous cell carcinoma.
It involves removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
Choice B rationale:
"We'll use chemotherapy to target the cancer cells." Chemotherapy is typically not the first-line treatment for squamous cell carcinoma.
It may be considered in advanced cases or when other treatments are not effective.
However, it is not the primary treatment option for this type of skin cancer.
Choice C rationale:
"Radiation therapy can help shrink the tumor." Radiation therapy is a viable treatment option for squamous cell carcinoma, especially when surgery is not feasible due to the location of the tumor or other factors.
It can help shrink the tumor and target cancer cells.
Choice D rationale:
"We recommend Mohs surgery for your condition." Mohs surgery is often recommended for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma, particularly when the cancer is in sensitive areas or when preserving healthy tissue is critical.
Mohs surgery involves the removal of the cancerous tissue in layers, with immediate examination to ensure complete removal.
A client with a family history of skin cancer comes for a skin assessment. What should the nurse prioritize during the assessment?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Assessing the client's overall health status." While assessing the client's overall health status is important, the primary focus during a skin assessment for a client with a family history of skin cancer should be on skin-specific concerns.
Identifying any suspicious skin lesions or changes in moles takes precedence in this context.
Choice B rationale:
"Checking for enlarged lymph nodes." Checking for enlarged lymph nodes is relevant in certain medical assessments but is not the primary priority when assessing a client with a family history of skin cancer.
The primary focus should be on skin-related concerns.
Choice C rationale:
"Identifying any suspicious skin lesions or changes in moles." This is the correct answer.
Given the family history of skin cancer, the nurse should prioritize the assessment of the client's skin for any suspicious lesions or changes in moles.
Early detection is crucial in cases with a family history of skin cancer.
Choice D rationale:
"Evaluating the client's cardiovascular health." Evaluating cardiovascular health is important but not the primary concern in this scenario.
The client's family history of skin cancer directs the assessment toward skin-related concerns and early detection of potential skin cancer.
A nurse is providing education to a group of patients about skin cancer prevention. Which statement by the nurse is appropriate for the patient's understanding of sun protection measures?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should emphasize the importance of limiting sun exposure during peak hours to prevent skin cancer.
This is because the sun's rays are the strongest and most harmful between 10 a.m.
and 4 p.m.
By avoiding prolonged sun exposure during these hours, individuals can reduce their risk of UV radiation damage to their skin.
This is a crucial piece of advice in skin cancer prevention.
Choice B rationale:
Wearing dark-colored clothing does not protect individuals from UV radiation.
In fact, dark-colored clothing may absorb and retain more heat from the sun, making it less comfortable in hot weather.
The color of the clothing does not determine its effectiveness in protecting against UV rays.
Choice C rationale:
Tanning beds are not a safe alternative to natural sun exposure.
Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.
The use of tanning beds is strongly discouraged in skin cancer prevention efforts.
Choice D rationale:
Using any sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher is not sufficient for adequate sun protection.
While sunscreen with SPF 15 can provide some protection, it may not offer adequate protection for prolonged sun exposure, especially in areas with intense sunlight.
SPF 30 or higher is generally recommended for better protection against UV radiation.
A client has recently been diagnosed with skin cancer and is feeling anxious. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further emotional support?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement "I don't know how I'll look after surgery" reflects the client's concerns about the cosmetic outcomes of surgery but does not necessarily indicate a need for further emotional support.
Many individuals have legitimate concerns about their appearance after surgery, but this does not necessarily imply a lack of emotional support.
It is essential to address these concerns, but they may not indicate a significant need for additional emotional support.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "I'm going to follow my treatment plan diligently" indicates the client's commitment to their treatment plan, which is a positive sign.
It demonstrates that the client is taking their diagnosis seriously and is willing to actively participate in their care.
While emotional support may still be important, this statement does not necessarily indicate a need for further emotional support.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "I'll make sure to wear sunscreen from now on" indicates the client's willingness to take preventive measures after their diagnosis.
While this is a positive step in the right direction for skin cancer prevention, it does not necessarily indicate a need for additional emotional support.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I don't think skin cancer is a big deal; it's just on my skin" suggests a potential lack of understanding or minimization of the seriousness of skin cancer.
This may indicate a need for further emotional support to address the client's perception of the condition.
It is essential to provide education and emotional support to help the client understand the potential consequences and impact of skin cancer on their overall health and well-being.
A nurse is assessing a patient for risk factors associated with skin cancer. Which of the following are considered risk factors for developing skin cancer? Select all that apply
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Family history of skin cancer is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer.
Individuals with a family history of skin cancer have a higher likelihood of developing the condition themselves due to genetic predisposition and shared environmental factors.
Choice B rationale:
Dark skin complexion is generally considered a protective factor against skin cancer.
People with darker skin have more melanin, which provides some natural protection against UV radiation.
While they can still develop skin cancer, it is less common in individuals with dark skin compared to those with fair skin.
Choice C rationale:
Chronic sun exposure is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer.
Prolonged and frequent exposure to UV radiation from the sun increases the risk of DNA damage in skin cells, which can lead to the development of skin cancer over time.
Choice D rationale:
Regular use of tanning beds is a known risk factor for skin cancer.
Tanning beds emit artificial UV radiation, which can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.
Avoiding tanning beds is an important preventive measure.
Choice E rationale:
Avoidance of wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts is not a risk factor for developing skin cancer.
In fact, wearing protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, is recommended as a preventive measure to reduce UV exposure and lower the risk of skin cancer.
A nurse is caring for a patient with squamous cell carcinoma. What potential complication should the nurse closely monitor for in this patient?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Metastasis to distant organs is a potential complication of squamous cell carcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma can invade surrounding tissues and, if left untreated or if it spreads to lymph nodes or distant organs, it can become life-threatening.
Therefore, nurses should closely monitor for signs of metastasis, such as enlarged lymph nodes or symptoms indicative of distant organ involvement.
Choice B rationale:
Local tissue invasion is a characteristic feature of squamous cell carcinoma, but it is not considered a potential complication.
Instead, local tissue invasion is one of the primary characteristics of this type of skin cancer.
Complications typically refer to adverse outcomes or events that can occur as a result of the disease process, such as metastasis.
Choice C rationale:
Cosmetic disfigurement is a possible consequence of treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, such as surgery to remove the cancerous tissue.
However, it is not a complication in the sense of an unexpected or adverse event.
Patients are often informed about the potential for cosmetic changes as part of the informed consent process before surgery.
Choice D rationale:
Recurrent tumors are a potential complication of squamous cell carcinoma.
Even after treatment, squamous cell carcinoma can recur in the same location or develop in nearby areas.
Therefore, it is important for nurses to monitor for signs of recurrence and educate patients about the importance of regular follow-up and skin examinations.
A client is asking for guidance on choosing an appropriate sunscreen. What recommendation should the nurse provide regarding the sun protection factor (SPF) of sunscreen?
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Use sunscreen with an SPF of 10 or higher for daily protection" is not the best recommendation.
While an SPF of 10 provides some level of protection, it may not offer adequate protection for extended sun exposure or intense sunlight.
Higher SPF values provide better protection against UV radiation, which is important for preventing skin damage and skin cancer.
Choice B rationale:
"Select a sunscreen with the highest SPF available for maximum protection" is not necessarily the best advice either.
While higher SPF values offer more protection, they may not provide significantly greater protection than SPF 30 or 50.
Additionally, very high SPF values can be associated with increased cost and may not be necessary for everyday use.
Choice C rationale:
"SPF 30 or higher is recommended for adequate sun protection" is the most appropriate recommendation.
SPF 30 is considered to be a good balance between protection and usability.
It provides adequate protection against UVB radiation, which is responsible for sunburn and a significant portion of skin cancer risk.
SPF 30 filters out about 97% of UVB rays, whereas SPF 50 filters out about 98%, making SPF 30 a practical choice for daily use.
Choice D rationale:
"SPF is not essential; wearing a hat is sufficient" is not an accurate recommendation.
While wearing a wide-brimmed hat can provide some protection against the sun's harmful rays, it is not a substitute for sunscreen.
Sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection and should be used in conjunction with other sun protection measures for comprehensive sun safety.
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