The nurse is preparing to perform a health assessment on an adult client who has a family history of cancer. Which questions should the nurse ask the client to assess for the early warning signs of cancer?

Question

Select all that apply.
A) "Do you have a cough that is associated with seasonal allergies?"
B) "Have you noticed a change in your appetite?"
C) "Have you noticed any cuts that have not healed?"
D) "Have you had any changes in bowel or bladder habits?"
E) "Have you experienced any problems swallowing?"

Answer 1

Answer: C, D, E

Nurses should assess all clients, especially those with a history of cancer, for early warning signs of cancer. The early warning signs include change in bowel or bladder habits, a sore that does not heal, unusual bleeding or discharge, thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere, indigestion or difficulty swallowing, obvious change in wart or mole, or a nagging cough or hoarseness. Changes in appetite or cough that is associated with seasonal allergies are not associated with the early warning signs of cancer.