Breast Cancer Case Study

Regular screening is essential for the early identification of the cancer. Questions Some of the questions to engage the patient in when interviewing her would include asking the patient if she has any family history of cancer. Familial history of cancer increases the likelihood of developing cancer and may provide the patient with resilience to face the condition. Another essential question to ask the patient is whether she understands her diagnosis and the intended care plan. Asking patients about their understanding of their conditions is important to establish their health literacy on the condition and its management. Other presenting symptoms in such patients could include bloody breast discharges and lymphadenopathy (Reddy, 2017). Diagnostic studies Blood tests for metastasis are one of the most important tests to conduct for the patient.

Serum tumor markers are essential in identifying the presence of any tumor markers in the serum which would indicate metastasis of the cancer. Chest X-ray tests also are critical for the patient to examine the likelihood of metastasis of the cancer to the lungs. A bone scan of the patient's bones is an essential test to determine whether the cancer has spread to the patient's bone tissues, this is also essential as the scans can be used to compare later with treatment to assess response to treatment of the cancer. Through the treatment period, serum cancer markers tests and complete blood counts as well as bone scans, chest X-rays will be essential to monitor the progress and response to the treatment provided.