A patient who has intermittent epigastric distress, weight loss, and ascites is diagnosed with stomach cancer. The nurse plans care for the patient with the knowledge that these findings indicate that

Question

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Survival rate for patients with stomach cancer is low and the presence of ascites indicates metastasis and is a poor prognostic sign. The patient may be a candidate for surgery, which is the only curative treatment for stomach cancer. Radiation may be used, but it is not the treatment of choice because stomach cancers do not respond well to radiation. The patient may need a referral to hospice services, but this will depend on factors such as the patient's desires and how long the patient is projected to live.

A Patient Who Has Intermittent Epigastric Distress, Weight Loss, and Ascites