Details

Autor(en) / Beteiligte

• Zimmerman, Laura
• Britton, Kathy

Titel

Prevention through vigilance: Malignant melanoma management

Ist Teil von

• Nursing management, 2009-06, Vol.40 (6), p.26-29

Ort / Verlag

United States: by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc

Erscheinungsjahr

2009

Quelle

MEDLINE

Beschreibungen/Notizen

• In 2008, an estimated 116,500 new cases of cutaneous melanoma were diagnosed in the US. The incidence of malignant melanoma is increasing at a faster rate than any other neoplasm and has become a major public health issue. Melanoma risk factors include: a large number of dysplastic nevi; many ordinary moles; fair skin; personal history of melanoma or skin cancer; family history of melanoma; weakened immune system; history of severe, blistering sunburns; and exposure to UV radiation. Nurses can play a critical role in the care of patients with melanoma by offering preventive education and support. Strategies include helping patients and families understand the disease process and prognosis, providing guidance with treatment options and psychosocial support, and empowering them to maintain a sense of autonomy. Prevention of this potentially devastating disease through primary techniques such as early education, sunscreen use, sun safety, sun avoidance, and early detection remains critical.