A client with gastric cancer can expect to have surgery for resection. Which of the following should be the nursing management priority for the preoperative client with gastric cancer?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of a client with gastric cancer scheduled for surgery, the nursing management priority for the preoperative period should be the correction of nutritional deficits (Option B). This is because individuals with gastric cancer often suffer from malnutrition due to the tumor's effects on eating and digestion. Correcting these deficits before surgery is crucial to optimize the client's nutritional status, improve wound healing, and enhance overall recovery outcomes postoperatively. Discharge planning (Option A) is important but is typically addressed closer to the time of discharge or postoperatively. Prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (Option C) is essential in the perioperative period, but addressing nutritional deficits takes precedence as it directly impacts the client's ability to tolerate surgery and recover effectively. Instruction regarding radiation treatment (Option D) is not the priority for a preoperative client with gastric cancer who is scheduled for surgery, as the immediate focus should be on preparing the client for the upcoming procedure. From an educational perspective, understanding the rationale behind prioritizing correction of nutritional deficits in preoperative care for clients with gastric cancer not only reinforces the importance of holistic patient care but also highlights the significant impact that nutritional status can have on surgical outcomes and recovery. Nursing students need to grasp the critical role of nutrition in the preoperative period to provide optimal care to clients undergoing surgical interventions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Dumping syndrome. Dumping syndrome is a common complication following gastric resection where food passes too quickly into the small intestine, leading to symptoms like abdominal cramps, diarrhea, sweating, and weakness. It is crucial for the nurse to educate the client on recognizing these symptoms to manage them effectively. Option A) Constipation is incorrect because gastric resection typically leads to the opposite issue of diarrhea due to rapid transit of food through the digestive system post-surgery. Option C) Gastric spasm is incorrect as it is not a common complication of gastric resection; therefore, it is not a priority for client education. Option D) Intestinal spasms is incorrect as well, as this is not a typical complication following gastric resection. In an educational context, understanding these complications is vital for nurses caring for clients post-gastric resection. By teaching clients about potential issues like dumping syndrome and its symptoms, nurses empower clients to recognize and manage these complications effectively, improving their overall post-operative outcomes and quality of life.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of rectal cancer, the correct symptom that a client may exhibit is rectal bleeding (Option C). This is because rectal cancer often presents with symptoms such as blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, and rectal bleeding. Option A, abdominal fullness, is not typically a primary symptom of rectal cancer. Abdominal fullness may be seen in other gastrointestinal conditions like ascites or bowel obstruction, but it is not a hallmark symptom of rectal cancer. Option B, gastric fullness, is more indicative of issues within the stomach or upper gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis or gastric outlet obstruction. It is not directly related to rectal cancer. Option D, right upper quadrant pain, is commonly associated with issues involving the liver or gallbladder, such as cholecystitis or hepatitis. It is not a typical symptom of rectal cancer. Educationally, understanding the specific symptoms associated with different types of cancer is crucial for nurses to provide early detection and appropriate interventions. Recognizing the key signs of rectal cancer can lead to timely diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. Nurses play a vital role in patient education, screening, and support for individuals at risk for colorectal cancers.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of medical-surgical nursing, understanding the risk factors for different conditions is crucial for providing effective care. In this case, the correct answer is option A) Adenomatous polyps. Adenomatous polyps are considered precancerous lesions in the colon and rectum. If left untreated, these polyps can progress to develop into colorectal cancer, including rectal cancer. Therefore, a client with adenomatous polyps is at an increased risk of developing rectal cancer. Option B) Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition of the diverticula in the colon and, while it can lead to complications, it is not directly associated with an increased risk of rectal cancer. Option C) Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus, which do not predispose an individual to rectal cancer. Option D) Peptic ulcer disease is a condition involving ulcers in the stomach or proximal duodenum, and it is not a known risk factor for rectal cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing risk factors for colorectal cancer, such as adenomatous polyps. Nurses need to understand these risk factors to provide appropriate patient education, screening recommendations, and support for individuals at risk for developing colorectal cancer, including rectal cancer. By knowing these risk factors, nurses can promote early detection and intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of rectal cancer versus colon cancer treatment, understanding the key differences in management strategies is crucial. The correct answer is C) Radiation. Radiation therapy is often used specifically for rectal cancer due to its anatomical proximity to surrounding structures such as the pelvic organs. Rectal cancer treatment commonly involves a combination of radiation and surgery to effectively target the tumor and reduce the risk of local recurrence. Option A) Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that can be used for both rectal and colon cancer to target cancer cells throughout the body. It is not a treatment that distinguishes between the two types of cancer based on location. Option B) Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps or tumors. While it is essential for screening and surveillance in both colon and rectal cancers, it is not a treatment modality. Option D) Surgical resection is a common treatment approach for both rectal and colon cancer, involving the removal of the tumor along with surrounding healthy tissue. However, the key difference lies in the extent and type of surgery needed based on the location and stage of the cancer, rather than being exclusive to rectal cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the nuances in treatment modalities for different types of gastrointestinal cancers. It underscores the need for tailored approaches in oncology based on tumor location, stage, and individual patient factors to optimize outcomes and minimize risks associated with each treatment option.