A client has small cell carcinoma of the lung. The nurse should anticipate providing which intervention to the client?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Small cell carcinoma ("oat cell") does initially respond well to chemo, but the prognosis is very poor because it usually has metastasized when found. Also the high doses of chemotherapy needed for small cell carcinoma often produce toxicity that leads to discontinuation of the treatment. Surgical resection usually does not play a role in treatment because the tumor has usually metastasized by this point. Because of the poor prognosis of this kind of cancer, hospice referral may be the most appropriate option.

A Client Has Small Cell Carcinoma of the Lung