The nurse is reviewing patient statements about diagnostic tests used to detect different types of cancer. Which statement by the patient demonstrates correct understanding?

A nursing student is learning about the CAUTION acronym for early cancer detection signs. Which statement best describes the “N” in CAUTION? 

A patient recently had a prostate biopsy as part of the diagnostic workup for an elevated PSA level. The nurse is reviewing the pathology report, which includes a Gleason score. When the patient asks what this score means, which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

A patient with advanced colon cancer is receiving palliative care at home for severe pain. Which observation by the nurse indicates that the family understands effective pain management?

During an oral assessment, the nurse notes white, thickened patches on the patient’s tongue and inner cheek that cannot be scraped off. The patient is a long-term smoker and reports occasional soreness but no bleeding. These findings are concerning because they may indicate a precancerous lesion. Which term best describes these assessment findings?

A nursing student is reviewing genetic mutations involved in cancer development. Which statement best demonstrates an understanding of the difference between oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes?

A 65-year-old patient receiving external beam radiation therapy for esophageal cancer reports difficulty swallowing and a reduced appetite. Which food option should the nurse suggest to best support the patient’s nutritional status?

Low-hemoglobin anemia can be caused by a deficiency in iron.

Vitamins and minerals do not interact with each other in the body.

Water-soluble vitamins are stored in the body and can be toxic in large amounts.