A nurse is assisting with the development of an education program about skin cancer. What information should the nurse include in the presentation?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Basal cell carcinoma has a high rate of metastasis: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and grows slowly with a very low tendency to metastasize. It usually remains localized and rarely spreads to distant tissues. Having a high rate of metastasis provides inaccurate information during patient education. B. Tanning bed use should be limited to once a week: Tanning beds emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Even occasional exposure to artificial UV radiation can damage DNA in skin cells and increase cancer risk. Health education should emphasize avoiding tanning beds entirely rather than suggesting a “safe” frequency. C. A family history of squamous cell carcinoma is a risk factor: Squamous cell carcinoma is more strongly associated with cumulative ultraviolet exposure, chronic skin damage, and environmental factors such as prolonged sun exposure. While genetic predisposition may play a minor role in some cancers, family history is not considered a primary risk factor. D. Older adults with light skin are at greater risk: Individuals with fair or light skin have lower levels of melanin, which provides some protection against ultraviolet radiation. Over time, repeated sun exposure leads to cumulative DNA damage in skin cells, increasing the likelihood of skin cancer development. Older adults with light skin therefore have a significantly higher risk because they have both reduced natural UV protection and prolonged lifetime exposure.