Benchmark - Nursing Process: Approach to Care

Benchmark - Nursing Process: Approach to Care

Cancer is one of the diseases affecting individuals across the globe. Most states have set aside significant amounts of funds to address the condition by ensuring that those affected access quality care. The management of the disease differs based on the type and stage of cancer. It has argued that late stages of the condition require high costs to manage with chances of cure remaining low. Studies have revealed conflicting causes of the disease. Others argue that inappropriate life choices are the cause of the condition. In contrast, others hold the view that genetic predisposition and exposure to light during sleeping hours are the significant causes of the disease. Analysis of the diseases with a significant focus on its staging and complications, side effects of treatments, and approaches of lessening the impacts would help in getting insights on its proper management. Diagnosis and Staging of Cancer Cancer diagnosis begins with complaints about abnormal body functioning or symptoms suspected of cancer. The first stage of diagnosis involves imaging tests aimed to establish the presence of a tumor or lump. The notable imaging tests include ultrasounds, mammograms, and pap smears. A biopsy can also be conducted in which a tissue sample is diagnosed (ASC, 2019). The identification of cancerous cells leads to the second phase, known as grading. The stage involves placing the cells in their respective categories as either high grade (poor prognosis) or low grade (better prognosis). The higher the grade, the quicker the cells can spread to other body cells. A cancer diagnosis is followed by staging, which involves establishing the progress or the degree to which it has affected the body. Staging involves identification of the size and location of the tumor, lymph node involvement, and the quantities of tumors present.