Page 1276 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

4. Screening via regular gynecological

examinations and Pap test, with treatment of
precancerous abnormalities, decreases the incidence
and mortality of cervical cancer.
C. Assessment
1. Painless vaginal postmenstrual and postcoital
bleeding
2. Foul-smelling or serosanguineous vaginal discharge
3. Pelvic, lower back, leg, or groin pain
4. Anorexia and weight loss
5. Leakage of urine and feces from the vagina
6. Dysuria
7. Hematuria
8. Cytological changes on Pap test
D. Interventions (Box 44-10)
E. Laser therapy
1. Laser therapy is used when all boundaries of the
lesion are visible during colposcopic examination.
2. Energy from the beam is absorbed by fluid in the
tissues, causing them to vaporize.
3. Minimal bleeding is associated with the procedure.
4. Slight vaginal discharge is expected following the
procedure, and healing occurs in 6 to 12 weeks.
F. Cryosurgery
1. Cryosurgery involves freezing of the tissues, using a
probe, with subsequent necrosis and sloughing.
2. No anesthesia is required, although cramping may
occur during the procedure.
3. A heavy watery discharge will occur for several weeks
following the procedure.
4. Instruct the client to avoid intercourse and the use of
tampons while the discharge is present.
G. Conization
1. A cone-shaped area of the cervix is removed.
2. Conization allows the woman to retain reproductive
capacity.
3. Long-term follow-up care is needed, because new
lesions can develop.
4. The risks of the procedure include hemorrhage,
uterine perforation, incompetent cervix, cervical
stenosis, and preterm labor in future pregnancies.
H. Hysterectomy

1. Description
a. Hysterectomy is performed for
microinvasive cancer if childbearing is

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