ATI LPN
Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017)
Chapter 58 : Assessment and Management of Patients with Breast Disorders Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient who has just had a radical mastectomy and axillary node dissection. When providing patient education regarding rehabilitation, what should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Post-axillary dissection, patients should avoid lifting objects heavier than 5 to 10 pounds to prevent lymphedema or injury. Arm exercises are encouraged, cuticles should not be cut to avoid infection, and slings are unnecessary.
Question 2 of 5
A new mother who is breastfeeding calls the clinic to speak to a nurse. The patient is complaining of pain in her left breast and describes her breast as feeling doughy. The nurse tells her to come into the clinic and be checked. The patient is diagnosed with acute mastitis and placed on antibiotics. What comfort measure should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Cold compresses help relieve discomfort in acute mastitis by reducing inflammation. A snug bra supports the breast, hygiene is essential, and massage is not recommended as it may worsen the condition.
Question 3 of 5
When planning discharge teaching with a patient who has undergone a total mastectomy with axillary dissection, the nurse knows to instruct the patient that she should report what sign or symptom to the physician immediately?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sudden cessation of drainage output may indicate an occlusion, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications like seroma. Gradual decline is expected, fatigue is common, and a temperature of 98.5 F is not concerning; 100.4 F or higher would suggest infection.
Question 4 of 5
A patient newly diagnosed with breast cancer states that her physician suspects regional lymph node involvement and told her that there are signs of metastatic disease. The nurse learns that the patient has been diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer. What is an implication of this diagnosis?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Stage IV breast cancer, with metastatic disease, has a 5-year survival rate of approximately 15%. Surgery may still be part of palliative or local control strategies, the disease is not highly treatable, and spontaneous resolution is not possible.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is performing a comprehensive health history of a patient who is in her 50s. The nurse should identify what risk factor that may increase this patients risk for breast cancer?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Late age at first pregnancy (after 30) is a known risk factor for breast cancer due to prolonged estrogen exposure without the protective effect of pregnancy. Breastfeeding, early perimenopause, and menarche at age 13 are not significant risk factors.