Which of the following diets is most commonly associated with colon cancer?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of medical-surgical nursing and gastrointestinal health, understanding the relationship between diet and colon cancer is crucial. The correct answer, A) Low-fiber, high fat, is most commonly associated with colon cancer for several reasons. A diet low in fiber and high in fat can lead to constipation and prolonged exposure of the colon to carcinogens present in the stool, increasing the risk of colon cancer development. Option B) Low-fat, high-fiber is actually a more favorable diet for colon health. High-fiber diets promote regular bowel movements and help to remove toxins from the body, reducing the risk of colon cancer. Option C) Low-protein, high-carbohydrate and Option D) Low carbohydrate, high protein are not directly linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. While a balanced intake of protein and carbohydrates is important for overall health, it is the low-fiber, high-fat diet that is particularly problematic in the context of colon cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of nutritional factors in the development of gastrointestinal diseases such as colon cancer. Nurses need to be able to educate patients on the significance of a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in unhealthy fats to promote colon health and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Understanding these dietary relationships empowers nurses to provide evidence-based dietary guidance to their patients for optimal health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of treating colon cancer, radiation therapy is used before surgery primarily to reduce the size of the tumor. This process, known as neoadjuvant therapy, aims to shrink the tumor, making it more manageable for surgical removal. By decreasing the tumor size, radiation therapy can potentially make the surgical procedure safer and more effective. It can also help reduce the risk of cancer cells spreading to other parts of the body during surgery. Regarding the incorrect options: - Option B: Eliminating the malignant cells directly is not the primary goal of radiation therapy before surgery. While radiation therapy can kill cancer cells, its main purpose in this scenario is to shrink the tumor. - Option C: While radiation therapy can be part of a treatment plan aimed at curing cancer, its role before surgery is more focused on tumor reduction rather than curing the cancer outright. - Option D: Helping the bowel heal after surgery is not the primary purpose of using radiation therapy before surgery for colon cancer. Other post-operative interventions would be more appropriate for promoting bowel healing. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind using radiation therapy before surgery for colon cancer enhances students' comprehension of the multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. It highlights the importance of neoadjuvant therapies in preparing for surgical interventions and emphasizes the specific goals and outcomes associated with each treatment modality in the context of comprehensive patient care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of a client with colon cancer, the most likely symptom to exhibit would be a change in bowel habits, which is option B. This is because colon cancer often causes alterations in bowel movements such as constipation, diarrhea, or changes in stool consistency. These changes occur due to the obstruction or inflammation caused by the tumor in the colon. Option A, a change in appetite, is less specific to colon cancer and can be present in various other health conditions or even psychological factors. It is not a hallmark symptom of colon cancer. Option C, an increase in body weight, is unlikely in colon cancer as it typically presents with unintended weight loss due to factors like decreased appetite, malabsorption, or the body's increased energy demands to fight the cancer. Option D, an increase in body temperature, is not a typical symptom of colon cancer unless there is an associated infection. Colon cancer itself does not directly cause an increase in body temperature. It is crucial for nursing students to understand these specific symptoms associated with colon cancer to effectively assess and provide care to patients with this condition. Recognizing these symptoms promptly can lead to early detection and intervention, improving patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a client who has undergone surgery for colon cancer, the correct answer is "C) Partial bowel obstruction." This is because following abdominal surgery, especially in the case of cancer resection, there is a risk of postoperative complications such as adhesions or scar tissue formation that can lead to partial bowel obstruction. This complication occurs due to the narrowing of the intestinal lumen, which can impede the passage of stool and gas. Option A) Peritonitis is incorrect in this scenario because peritonitis typically results from a perforation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to the inflammation of the peritoneum. While it can be a complication of gastrointestinal surgery, it is not directly associated with colon cancer surgery unless there is a perforation during the procedure. Option B) Diverticulosis is unlikely to develop immediately post colon cancer surgery as it is a chronic condition characterized by the presence of diverticula in the colon wall. It is not a common immediate complication following surgery unless the patient already had diverticulosis prior to the cancer surgery. Option D) Complete bowel obstruction is less likely in this case as it is a more severe condition where the intestinal contents are completely blocked, often requiring urgent medical intervention. While it can occur as a complication of various conditions, it is not the most likely disorder to develop immediately after colon cancer surgery. Understanding the potential postoperative complications following colon cancer surgery is crucial for nurses caring for these patients. Being able to recognize and anticipate complications like partial bowel obstruction can lead to timely interventions and improved patient outcomes. Nurses should closely monitor for signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction in postoperative patients and collaborate with the healthcare team to provide appropriate care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of a client with gastric cancer, the correct symptom that they may exhibit is a feeling of fullness (Option C). This is because gastric cancer can lead to a tumor obstructing the stomach, causing a sensation of fullness even with minimal food intake. This symptom is known as early satiety and is a common presentation in gastric cancer. Abdominal cramping (Option A) is not typically associated with gastric cancer unless there are complications like bowel obstruction or perforation. Constant hunger (Option B) is unlikely in gastric cancer as the feeling of fullness usually dominates. Weight gain (Option D) is also not a typical symptom of gastric cancer; instead, unexplained weight loss is more common due to decreased food intake and metabolic changes associated with cancer. In an educational context, understanding the specific symptoms associated with gastric cancer is crucial for early detection and intervention. Nurses need to be aware of these signs to provide appropriate care, support early diagnosis, and improve patient outcomes. Recognizing the distinct manifestations of gastric cancer helps nurses in their assessment skills and in collaborating effectively with the healthcare team to ensure holistic care for the client.