The nursing process is a tool that puts knowledge into practice. By utilizing this systematic problem-solving method, nurses can determine the health care needs of an individual and provide personalized care.
Write a paper (1,750-2,000 words) on cancer and approach to care based on the utilization of the nursing process. Include the following in your paper:
- Describe the diagnosis and staging of cancer.
- Describe at least three complications of cancer, the side effects of treatment, and methods to lessen physical and psychological effects.
- Discuss what factors contribute to the yearly incidence and mortality rates of various cancers in Americans.
- Explain how the American Cancer Society (ACS) might provide education and support. What ACS services would you recommend and why?
- Explain how the nursing process is utilized to provide safe and effective care for cancer patients across the life span. Your explanation should include each of the five phases and demonstrate the delivery of holistic and patient-focused care.
- Discuss how undergraduate education in liberal arts and science studies contributes to the foundation of nursing knowledge and prepares nurses to work with patients utilizing the nursing process. Consider mathematics, social and physical sciences, and science studies as an interdisciplinary research area.
You are required to cite to a minimum of four sources to complete this assignment. Sources must be published within the last 5 years and appropriate for the assignment criteria and relevant to nursing practice.
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Cancer is a disease that has been affecting individuals worldwide for years. As healthcare professionals, it is our responsibility to implement efficient and effective approaches to care for cancer patients. The nursing process is a valuable tool that aids in providing personalized care to individuals while also ensuring that their physical and psychological needs are met. This paper aims to explore cancer and approach to care utilizing the nursing process.
1. Diagnosis and Staging of Cancer
The diagnosis of cancer involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and laboratory evaluations. Staging, on the other hand, refers to the process of determining the extent to which cancer has spread within an individual. The TNM classification system is commonly used to stage cancer, with T denoting the size of the tumor, N representing whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and M reflecting whether cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body.
2. Complications of Cancer, Side Effects of Treatment, and Methods to Lessen Their Effects
Cancer and its treatment often come with complications and side effects that negatively affect an individual’s physical and psychological well-being. Some common complications include pain, fatigue, and weight loss. Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and hair loss. Methods to lessen these effects include the use of pain medications and antiemetic drugs to manage nausea and vomiting.
3. Factors Contributing to Incidence and Mortality Rates of Various Cancers in Americans
Various factors contribute to cancer incidence and mortality rates in Americans, including genetics, lifestyle choices such as tobacco use, and environmental factors such as exposure to carcinogens. Additionally, lack of access to healthcare and inadequate cancer screening programs may contribute to higher mortality rates.
4. Role of American Cancer Society (ACS) in Educating and Supporting Cancer Patients
The ACS provides a wealth of information and resources to cancer patients, survivors, and their families. This includes information on cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. ACS services such as support groups and counseling can also help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological effects of cancer.
5. Utilization of Nursing Process in Providing Safe and Effective Care for Cancer Patients
The nursing process consists of five phases, namely assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. In cancer care, this process is used to provide personalized and holistic care that is focused on meeting the individual needs of patients. Nurses assess patients’ physical, emotional, and psychological needs and develop care plans accordingly. They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care.
6. Importance of Liberal Arts and Science Studies in Nursing Education
Undergraduate education in liberal arts and science studies lays the foundation for nursing knowledge and prepares nurses to work with patients by utilizing the nursing process. Interdisciplinary research areas such as mathematics, social and physical sciences, and science studies help nurses to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are integral to providing quality care.
Conclusion:
Cancer is a complex disease that requires a systematic and tailored approach to care utilizing the nursing process. By incorporating the five phases of the nursing process, healthcare professionals can provide safe and effective care that is tailored to the needs of cancer patients. Additionally, undergraduate education in liberal arts and science studies is essential in preparing nurses to effectively utilize the nursing process in cancer care.
