A patient reports an area on the arm that has been getting numb and "feels funny." Why should the nurse consider this information as being important?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. Focal seizures, such as muscle twitching or jerking of an arm or leg, abnormal smells or tastes, problems with speech, or numbness and tingling, may occur. Other more specific symptoms, known as focal symptoms, occur in approximately one-third of patients with brain tumors. Focal symptoms include hearing problems, such as ringing or buzzing sounds or hearing loss, decreased muscle control, lack of coordination, decreased sensation, weakness or paralysis, difficulty with walking or speech, balance problems, or double vision. Because the symptoms are usually caused by invasion or compression from the tumor, these focal symptoms can help identify the location of the tumor.
2. The type and length of treatment of a tumor is based on location, grade, and type. These factors would be relevant to the treatment, whether it be surgical, radiation, or chemotherapy.
3. The neurologic changes present with a brain tumor are never taken lightly and should be noted as they are helpful with the diagnosis of an abnormality.
4. Treatment would determine length of hospital stay.

A Patient Reports an Area on the Arm That Has