A client with suspected lung cancer is scheduled for thoracentesis as part of the diagnostic workup. The nurse reviews the client’s history for conditions that might contraindicate this procedure. Which condition is a contraindication for thoracentesis?

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Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 10th Edition Test Bank Quizlet Questions

Question 1 of 5

A client with suspected lung cancer is scheduled for thoracentesis as part of the diagnostic workup. The nurse reviews the client’s history for conditions that might contraindicate this procedure. Which condition is a contraindication for thoracentesis?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: A bleeding disorder. Thoracentesis involves inserting a needle into the pleural space to remove fluid. A bleeding disorder increases the risk of excessive bleeding during the procedure. This can lead to complications such as hematoma formation, pneumothorax, or even life-threatening bleeding. It is crucial to assess and address bleeding disorders before performing thoracentesis to ensure the safety of the client. A: A seizure disorder is not a contraindication for thoracentesis unless uncontrolled seizures could compromise the safety of the procedure. B: Anemia alone is not a contraindication for thoracentesis, as it does not directly increase the risk of complications during the procedure. C: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is not a contraindication for thoracentesis unless it is severe and compromises the client's ability to tolerate the procedure.

Question 2 of 5

A client with lung cancer develops Homer’s when the tumor invades the ribs and affects the sympathetic nerve ganglia. When assessing for signs and symptoms of this syndrome, the nurse should note:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Miosis, partial eyelid ptosis, and anhidrosis on the affected side of the face. This is indicative of Horner's syndrome, which occurs due to the disruption of sympathetic nerve supply. Miosis (constricted pupil), ptosis (drooping eyelid), and anhidrosis (lack of sweating) are classic signs of Horner's syndrome. These symptoms occur when the tumor invades the ribs and affects the sympathetic nerve ganglia. Summary of other choices: B: Chest pain, dyspnea, cough, weight loss, and fever are more commonly associated with lung cancer but not specific to Horner's syndrome. C: Arm and shoulder pain and atrophy of arm and hand muscles are not typical signs of Horner's syndrome. D: Hoarseness and dysphagia are more common symptoms of compression of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, not Horner's syndrome.

Question 3 of 5

To treat cervical cancer, a client has had an applicator of radioactive material placed in the vagina. Which observation by the nurse indicates a radiation hazard?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because maintaining the head of the bed at a 30-degree angle can cause the radioactive material to shift within the client's body, increasing the risk of radiation exposure. This position should be avoided to prevent displacement of the applicator. A: Strict bed rest is appropriate to minimize movement and dislodgement of the applicator, ensuring proper treatment delivery. C: Providing a bed bath does not pose a radiation hazard as long as proper precautions are taken. D: Checking the applicator's position every 4 hours is essential for monitoring and ensuring it remains in place to deliver the intended treatment.

Question 4 of 5

Following the American Cancer Society guidelines, the nurse should recommend that the women:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Have a mammogram annually. Mammograms are recommended by the American Cancer Society for breast cancer screening in women as they are effective in detecting early signs of breast cancer. Mammograms have been shown to reduce mortality rates from breast cancer. Annual mammograms are crucial for early detection and treatment. A: Performing breast self-examination annually is not recommended as a standalone screening method as it has not been shown to significantly reduce mortality rates. C: Having a normal receptor assay annually is not a standard screening test for breast cancer recommended by the American Cancer Society. D: Having a physician conduct a clinical examination every 2 years is not as effective as annual mammograms for detecting early signs of breast cancer.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is teaching a client who suspects that she has a lump in her breast. The nurse instructs the client that a diagnosis of breast cancer is confirmed by:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fine needle aspiration. This is because fine needle aspiration involves extracting cells from the lump in the breast for examination under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous. This procedure provides a definitive diagnosis of breast cancer. Breast self-examination (A) is a screening tool for detecting lumps but does not confirm a diagnosis. Mammography (C) is used for screening and detecting abnormalities but requires further testing for confirmation. Chest x-ray (D) is not useful for diagnosing breast cancer.

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