Before undergoing a colon resection for cancer of the colon,a patient has an elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)test result.What should the nurse explain that the test is used to do?

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Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein that can be found in higher amounts in individuals with certain cancers, including colon cancer. The primary use of monitoring CEA levels after a diagnosis of colon cancer is to assess the effectiveness of treatment and to monitor for recurrence of the cancer after surgery or other treatments. It is not used to confirm the diagnosis of colon cancer, identify the extent of cancer spread, or directly determine the need for radiation or chemotherapy.

Before Undergoing a Colon Resection for Cancer of the Colon,a