Physiological Adaptation: Oncology/Hematology

1. A client complaining of chronic hoarseness is scheduled for a laryngoscopy. What disease is the MD trying to rule out?
Answer: If hoarseness lasts for more than 4-6 weeks, this examination should be performed to eliminate the possibility of laryngeal carcinoma.

2. What 3 laboratory tests would be most helpful in establishing the diagnosis of DIC?
Answer: Prothrombin time (PT) prolonged, Low platelet count, Low fibrinogen

3. What are the mainstays of therapy for a client in a sickle cell disease?
Answer: Hydration, analgesia, oxygen, cardiac monitoring

4. What are the 3 conditions under which the administration of PRBC should be considered?
Answer: Acute hemorrhage- blood loss of >1.5 Liters
Surgical blood loss- >2 Liters
Chronic anemia- <7-8g/dl>

5. What are the risk factors for colon cancer?
Answer: Age >50, familial polyposis, ulcerative colitis, crohn's disease, radiation exposure, benign adenoma and previous history of colon cancer.

6. What type of diet has been shown to decrease chances of colorectal cancer?
Answer: Low fat, High fiber diet