A client is diagnosed with a small lipoma on his arm and is being discharged from the clinic. The client says, "I have a tumor, but I am not being treated with anything. I don't understand." How should the nurse respond?

Question

1. "I am supposed to make an appointment for you to see the oncologist who will recommend treatment."
2. "Lipomas are benign and usually do not require treatment."
3. "Lipomas grow slowly and are not cancerous."
4. "Lipomas do not metastasize and are not cancer."
5. "The physician will consult with a surgeon and will contact you later."

Answer 1

2,3,4
Rationale 1: There is no indication for seeing an oncologist.
Rationale 2: A lipoma is a fatty tumor and is benign. They do not require treatment unless they are positioned where they are easily irritated or injured. If so, simple removal generally suffices.
Rationale 3: Lipomas grow slowly.
Rationale 4: Lipomas do not metastasize.
Rationale 5: There is no reason for a surgical consultation.
Global Rationale: A lipoma is a fatty tumor and is benign. They do not require treatment unless they are positioned where they are easily irritated or injured. If so, simple removal generally suffices. Lipomas grow slowly and do not metastasize. There is no indication for seeing an oncologist or a surgeon.