Cancer Symptoms Management table

Cancer treatment is very aggressive in nature. The treatment can lead to symptoms that range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Complete the Cancer Symptoms Management Table

NUR2870_Module 01_Cancer Symptoms Management Table_v2.docx

Grading criterion:

1. For each symptom the student will include a minimum of 3 manifestations or assessment findings
2. For each symptom the student must include a minimum of 3 nursing diagnoses written in 2 part format
3. 2-part nursing diagnosis: Nursing diagnoses ….related to (R/T) what your assessment finding was
4. Only one can be a risk for…or potential for…
5. For each symptom the student must include at least 4 interventions
6. Only one intervention can be a medication
7. Three interventions would be what the RN can do without a physicians order

Do not forget to include complementary alternative therapy that may help in symptom management.

Cancer Symptoms and their Management

Symptom	Clinical Manifestations (including Diagnostics)	Possible Nursing Diagnosis	Interventions (including Medications and complementary alternative therapy)
Anemia
Neutropenia
Thrombocytopenia
Neuropathy
Cognitive disorders
Chemo Induced Nausea (CIN)
Mucositis
Alopecia
Pain

 

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Cancer treatment is often very aggressive, and it can lead to a range of symptoms that vary from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. The symptoms can be physical, emotional, or psychological and can have a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life. In this essay, we will discuss the Cancer Symptoms Management Table that outlines the manifestations, nursing diagnoses, and interventions for different symptoms experienced by cancer patients.

Pain is a common symptom experienced by cancer patients, and it can be caused by various factors, including tumor growth, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. The manifestations of pain can range from mild to severe, and patients may describe it as sharp, dull, burning, or aching. The nursing diagnoses related to pain are as follows: Acute pain related to tumor growth or treatment, Chronic pain related to cancer treatment or disease, and Ineffective coping related to pain.

The interventions for managing pain include administering pain medications as prescribed, using non-pharmacological pain management techniques such as guided imagery, relaxation exercises, or music therapy, and ensuring that the patient is in a comfortable position. The nurse can also use complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage to help manage pain.

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of cancer treatment, and they can have a significant impact on the patient’s nutritional status and quality of life. The manifestations of nausea and vomiting can range from mild to severe, and patients may experience other symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, or abdominal discomfort. The nursing diagnoses related to nausea and vomiting are as follows: Risk for fluid volume deficit related to vomiting, Anxiety related to nausea and vomiting, and Impaired nutrition related to anorexia and vomiting.

The interventions for managing nausea and vomiting include administering antiemetic medications as prescribed, encouraging the patient to eat small, frequent meals, and providing oral care to help alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth. The nurse can also use non-pharmacological interventions such as acupressure or aromatherapy to help manage nausea and vomiting.

Fatigue is another common symptom experienced by cancer patients, and it can be caused by various factors, including anemia, poor nutrition, or the side effects of treatment. The manifestations of fatigue can range from mild to severe, and patients may experience other symptoms such as weakness, lack of energy, or difficulty sleeping. The nursing diagnoses related to fatigue are as follows: Fatigue related to cancer treatment or disease, Sleep deprivation related to fatigue, and Activity intolerance related to fatigue.

The interventions for managing fatigue include encouraging the patient to rest and conserve energy, promoting good sleep hygiene, and providing nutritional support to address any underlying nutritional deficiencies. The nurse can also use complementary and alternative therapies such as yoga or meditation to help manage fatigue.

In conclusion, cancer treatment can be very aggressive, and it can lead to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life. The Cancer Symptoms Management Table outlines the manifestations, nursing diagnoses, and interventions for different symptoms experienced by cancer patients. Nurses play a critical role in symptom management, and they can use a range of interventions, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, to help alleviate the symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. It is essential for nurses to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive symptom management plan that addresses the patient’s physical, emotional, and psychological needs.

Symptom	Clinical Manifestations (including Diagnostics)	Possible Nursing Diagnosis	Interventions (including Medications and complementary alternative therapy)
Anemia	Fatigue, weakness, pallor, shortness of breath, tachycardia, dizziness, headache, cold hands and feet. Diagnostic tests include blood tests such as CBC (Complete Blood Count) and iron studies.	Risk for decreased tissue perfusion related to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.	Administer oxygen therapy as needed, blood transfusions, erythropoietin therapy, encourage iron-rich foods, and monitor for signs and symptoms of transfusion reactions.
Neutropenia	Low white blood cell count, fever, chills, malaise, sore throat, mouth ulcers, and infection. Diagnostic tests include CBC with differential.	Risk for infection related to neutropenia.	Administer prophylactic antibiotics, educate patients on proper hand hygiene, limit visitors and exposure to sick individuals, and monitor for signs and symptoms of infection.
Thrombocytopenia	Low platelet count, petechiae, ecchymosis, bleeding gums, and excessive bleeding. Diagnostic tests include CBC with differential and coagulation studies.	Risk for bleeding related to thrombocytopenia.	Administer platelet transfusions or medications that promote platelet production, monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding, avoid IM injections, and use gentle oral care.
Neuropathy	Numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in hands and feet. Diagnostic tests include nerve conduction studies and electromyography.	Risk for injury related to impaired sensation and mobility.	Provide education on foot and hand care, encourage safe ambulation, and consider alternative pain management strategies such as acupuncture and massage.
Cognitive disorders	Memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes. Diagnostic tests include cognitive testing and brain imaging studies.	Risk for altered thought processes related to cognitive impairment.	Provide cognitive stimulation, encourage exercise and a healthy diet, and involve family members in care.
Chemo Induced Nausea (CIN)	Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.	Risk for imbalanced nutrition related to CIN.	Administer antiemetic medications, encourage small, frequent meals, avoid strong-smelling foods, and provide alternative therapies such as ginger or acupuncture.
Mucositis	Painful sores in the mouth and throat, difficulty swallowing, and dry mouth.	Risk for impaired oral mucous membrane related to mucositis.	Provide oral care with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle mouthwash, administer medications for pain relief, and encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
Alopecia	Hair loss on the scalp, face, and body.	Risk for disturbed body image related to alopecia.	Provide emotional support, educate patients on scalp care and wig options, and encourage patients to participate in support groups.
Pain	Various types of pain including acute, chronic, neuropathic, and breakthrough. Diagnostic tests may include imaging studies and pain scales.	Risk for ineffective coping related to pain.	Administer pain medications as ordered, encourage relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation, consider alternative therapies such as acupuncture and massage, and involve a pain management team.