Which of the following symptoms is a client with colon cancer most likely to exhibit?

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 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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of diagnosing gastric cancer, the correct diagnostic test is gastroscopy (option C). Gastroscopy, also known as an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), allows direct visualization of the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach lining. This procedure is essential for detecting any abnormal growths, such as tumors or ulcers, that may indicate gastric cancer. Option A, a barium enema, is used to visualize the colon and rectum, making it an inappropriate choice for diagnosing gastric cancer. Colonoscopy (option B) is a procedure that examines the large intestine and is not specific to evaluating the stomach for cancerous growths. Serum chemistry levels (option D) are blood tests that provide information about the body's overall health but are not specific to diagnosing gastric cancer. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate diagnostic tests for different conditions is crucial for nurses working in medical-surgical settings. Knowing when to recommend specific tests based on a patient's symptoms and clinical presentation can lead to timely diagnoses and interventions. Gaining proficiency in interpreting diagnostic test results is a valuable skill that enhances a nurse's ability to provide comprehensive care to patients with gastrointestinal issues, including suspected 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 the context of caring for a postoperative client after gastric resection, focusing on nutritional needs (Option B) is paramount. This surgery involves the removal or alteration of a portion of the stomach, impacting the client's ability to digest and absorb nutrients effectively. Postoperatively, patients may experience changes in dietary requirements, malabsorption issues, or the need for specialized diets to prevent complications like malnutrition or dumping syndrome. Focusing on body image (Option A) is important for the client's psychological well-being, but in the immediate postoperative phase, ensuring adequate nutrition takes precedence over body image concerns. Skin care (Option C) is essential for preventing pressure ulcers in immobile patients but is not the primary concern after gastric resection. Addressing spiritual needs (Option D) is significant for holistic care, but it is not as critical as ensuring proper nutrition for recovery after this type of surgery. Educationally, understanding the priority of care post-gastric resection helps nursing students and healthcare professionals provide evidence-based and patient-centered care. It reinforces the importance of prioritizing interventions based on the client's physiological needs and the surgical procedure performed, ultimately promoting better outcomes and patient satisfaction.