1. Kristine Anaya

2.  It is important to review patient’s past
exposure to carcinogens, such as asbestos, as
well as any history of tobacco use.
 Ask if the patient has any chronic lung
diseases, such as tuberculosis or COPD.
 A family medical history should also be
obtained to assess for any history of cancers or
respiratory problems.

3.  Review any medications the patient is
currently taking, including OTC medications
and herbal supplements.
 It is especially important to note any
respiratory medications the patient may be
taking, as well as the patient’s response to these
medications.

4.  A thorough head to toe assessment is
important.
 Manifestations of lung cancer usually appear
late in the disease process.
 Manifestations of the disease can help
determine the type of lung cancer as well as
any metastatic spread.

5.  One the first symptoms that bring patients to
the doctor’s office is a persistent cough and
chest pain.
 It is important to assess if cough is productive
or non productive, if there is any blood tinged
sputum present, or any pain in chest.
 Ask patient how long cough has been present
as well as any treatments they have done for
cough and response to treatment.

6.  Assess patient for any anorexia, nausea,
vomiting, fatigue, and recent unexplained
weight loss.
 Ask the patient if they have had any fevers,
chills or night sweats.

7.  Lung cancer with mediastianl involvement can
lead to cardiac complications, such as pleural
effusion , cardiac tamponade, and
dysrhythmias.
It is important to assess the patient’s blood
pressure, jugular vein distention, and heart
sounds.

8.  It is vital for the nurse to assess the patient and
the family for anxiety.
 Assess the patient’s support system and coping
skills.

9.  Review with the patient their understanding of
not only the diagnosis of lung cancer but their
understanding of the procedures and treatment
options.
 There are several different tests the patient will
undergo and it is important that the patient be
aware of their plan of care.

10.  Lewis, Sharon L. (2007). Medical-surgical
nursing: assessment and management of clinical
problems. St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier.