The nurse is discussing Breast Self Examination (BSE) with a postmenopausal client. What instructions should the nurse give to the client about the correct time to perform BSE?
Daily, during the shower or bath
One week after the menstrual period
On the same day every month
Weekly, at the client's convenience
The Correct Answer is C
A) Daily, during the shower or bath:
This is incorrect. Performing a breast self-examination (BSE) daily is not necessary. The goal of BSE is to check for any changes over time, not to examine the breasts every day. It's more effective to perform the exam regularly at a consistent time each month.
B) One week after the menstrual period:
This is incorrect. This instruction is relevant for pre-menopausal women, where the hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle can cause breast tissue to feel lumpy or swollen. The best time for them to perform a BSE is one week after the menstrual period ends when the breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. However, for postmenopausal women, this is not necessary, as their hormonal levels are stable throughout the month.
C) On the same day every month:
This is the correct answer. For postmenopausal women, who no longer have menstrual cycles, the best time to perform a breast self-exam is on the same day every month. This ensures consistency and makes it easier for the client to notice any changes in the breast tissue over time. The day chosen should be one that is convenient and easy to remember, and it does not matter whether it is during the shower or bath, as long as the examination is done regularly.
D) Weekly, at the client's convenience:
This is incorrect. While performing a BSE weekly is not necessary, the key is consistency rather than frequency. Performing the exam monthly is sufficient, and it should be on a specific day each month, rather than at the client’s convenience on an irregular basis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) A blend of fibrous, glandular, and adipose tissues: The internal structure of the breast is composed of a mixture of fibrous, glandular, and adipose tissues. The glandular tissue is responsible for producing milk, the fibrous tissue provides structural support, and the adipose tissue stores fat. This combination of tissues gives the breast its shape and functional capabilities, making it a complex and dynamic organ.
B) Primarily milk ducts which function as milk reservoirs: While the breast does contain milk ducts that transport milk from the glandular tissue to the nipple, it is not primarily composed of these ducts. The milk ducts are an important component, but they do not make up the majority of the breast's internal structure. The blend of different tissues is what defines the breast’s anatomy.
C) Primarily muscle with small amounts of fibrous tissue: The breast itself does not contain significant muscle tissue. The primary muscles related to the breast are the pectoral muscles, which lie beneath the breast tissue but are not part of the internal breast structure. The internal breast primarily consists of fibrous, glandular, and adipose tissues, not muscle.
D) Glandular tissue to attach the breast to the chest wall: The glandular tissue is crucial for milk production, but it does not function to attach the breast to the chest wall. The attachment of the breast to the chest wall is facilitated by the Cooper's ligaments, which are fibrous bands that help maintain structural integrity. Glandular tissue primarily serves the function of milk production.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) The best time to perform BSE is immediately prior to the menstrual cycle:
Performing a breast self-examination (BSE) immediately prior to the menstrual cycle is not ideal because hormonal changes leading up to menstruation can cause the breasts to become swollen, tender, and lumpy. These changes could make it difficult to detect subtle lumps or changes in the breast tissue. For the most accurate assessment, it's recommended that women avoid performing BSE during the premenstrual phase when the breast tissue is most likely to be affected by hormonal fluctuations.
B) If pregnancy is suspected, BSE should not be performed until post-delivery:
This statement is incorrect. There is no contraindication to performing a breast self-examination during pregnancy, and it is important for pregnant women to continue self-monitoring for any changes in breast tissue. In fact, BSE should be performed regularly during pregnancy, as the breast tissue can undergo changes due to hormonal shifts, and early detection of any abnormalities is key to successful management.
C) The best time to perform BSE is 4 to 7 days after the first day of the menstrual period:
This is the correct recommendation. The best time to perform a BSE is 4 to 7 days after the first day of the menstrual period because the breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender during this time. Hormonal levels are more stable at this point in the menstrual cycle, and any lumps or changes in the tissue are more likely to be noticeable. Performing BSE during this time increases the likelihood of detecting potential abnormalities.
D) The woman with diagnosed fibrocystic breast tissue should not rely on BSE:
While it is true that women with fibrocystic breast changes may experience lumpy, tender tissue, they should still perform BSE regularly. Fibrocystic tissue can sometimes make it more difficult to distinguish between normal and abnormal changes, but BSE remains an important tool for detecting significant changes, such as new lumps or changes in size, shape, or consistency. Women with fibrocystic breast tissue should be taught to perform BSE regularly and to report any unusual changes to their healthcare provider. Relying solely on BSE for breast cancer detection is not recommended, but it is an essential part of breast health awareness.
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