Caring for Patients with Skin Cancer

Caring for patients that have undergone surgery for skin cancer is becoming more common.  Skin cancer has been on the rise for the last 15 years.  According to doctors, this could be a result of societal pressure, and the pressures put on younger people to look a certain way. The group that is seeing a significant increase in skin cancer cases is in young women ages 20-30. 

Related:  Working at the CDC (Center for Disease Control)

An Example of a Patient With Skin Cancer

This is not based on a factual person.

Ashely is a 27 year old female that considered herself to be the picture of health.  She played sports, and practiced cheerleading, was prom queen at her high school, the list goes on.  Ashley wanted to be a fashion designer, and attended college to pursue her interest.  Ashley also wanted to model, and over the years had done a few commercials since her early teens.  Something else Ashley did since her early teens was to visit a tanning bed, and lie out in the sun.  Her mom thought the safety of tanning beds was much better than the actual sun, so she was fine with allowing Ashley to tan. 

At age 24, Ashley landed a job as a fashion designer, and at age 25 Ashley had to give up her job, as she was suffering the effects of chemotherapy and radiation.  Ashley had to move back home so her mom could care for her.  According to Ashley's oncologist, her skin cancer is a direct result of her tanning.  There is hope that Ashley can beat the cancer; however, her skin will remain damaged for life. 

This is a very typical scenario, according to doctors, young people are risk takers, and assume it will never happen to them. Unfortunately, they are wrong. 

Caring for Skin Cancer Patients

Skin cancer patients that are hospitalized have most likely undergone surgery, chemo, and possibly radiation.  If a patient has undergone radiation, their skin may be burned and in pain. Depending on the area of the body this has occurred, it could be very uncomfortable.  A lidocaine solution may be beneficial, in addition to oral pain medications.  Radiation therapy can lower immunity, especially if combined with chemotherapy, so it is important to visually inspect skin that has received radiation therapy.  The skin can break down easier after radiation treatments, and sores could develop, creating the opportunity for infection. 

When a patient is being discharged and will care for themselves or family members will care for them, the procedure to provide home care will  involve discharge instructions.  Some non-prescription supplies that are beneficial for skin treatments are Aloe Vera gel, however, be sure it is not the version that contains added ingredients.  For very sore skin, an antibiotic ointment with a pain reliever can help.  Patients should be advised to check the skin for wounds or severe burns. 

Related:  Understanding and Preventing Hospital-Acquired Infections

Skin cancer patients should follow a healthy diet and follow doctors orders on lifestyle recommendations. 

Skin Cancer Statistics

New Cases Per 1 State		1990	2016	Up/Down
Reported	Skin Cancer	119600	139900	Up
Reported	Lung Cancer	144000	126000	Down
Reported	Breast Cancer	88000	87500	Down
Reported	Liver Cancer	3900	2400	Down
Reported	Pancreatic	1600	2900	Up

Scientist conducting the study say that they believe the lung cancer is down due to anti-smoking campaigns.  They contribute the increase in skin cancer directly to the ultra violet exposure. 

Skin Cancer Types

There is research done on a continuing basis of all forms of cancer, skin cancer included.  It is important to note, that not all skin cancer occurs from sun exposure.  Melanoma, which is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, often develops in places that the sun would not reach.  Toes are a good example, that seems to be a more common area of the body for melanoma to develop.  Because this is a deadly form of cancer if not caught early, it's imperative that skin be checked regularly by a doctor, for anyone over the age of 50.  Keeping a watch on moles is often what saves lives.  Any changes in a mole, or any abnormality on the body should always be checked out, to rule out a serious condition.  

When caught in the early stages, melanoma can be removed and treated; otherwise, this form of cancer can be deadly.  Types of cancer grow and spread differently, basal cell is a very common type of cancer that often appears on the face.  This form of cancer usually is very slow growing, and does not typically spread for quite some time.  Doctors can remove basal cell skin cancer in most cases, however, if it has been present for some time, it can develop deep roots, which lead to a large scar after removal. 

The real key to avoiding skin cancer is to limit time in the sun and tanning beds, and have your primary care doctor check skin regularly.  

Related:  International Nurses Association

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