nurse's notes

LUNG CANCER- tumors of the lung arising within the walls or epithelial lining of the bronchus


PRE-DISPOSING CAUSES:

• excessive smoking
• occupational exposure to asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickle, iron, radioactive substances, coal tar products, petroleum oil mist,
  

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

• hacking non-productive cough
• wheezing in the chest noted
• spitting of blood or blood streaks in the sputum
• fever due to infection like pneumonitis
• malaise
• weight loss
• fatigue
• anorexia
• chest pain
• dyspnea (difficulty of breathing)-due to partial bronchial obstruction
• symptoms of metastases like bone pain, abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting from liver involvement

• lobectomy-removal of one lobe
• pneumonectomy-removal of entire lung

NURSING MANAGEMENT:

• assist patient to undergo diagnostic procedure
• prevention of further extension to upper respiratory tract infection
• physical and emotional support
• teach patient the advantage of frequent exercises after operation
• providing supportive and rehabilitative measures