Laryngeal Cancer

1. Ineffective airway clearance related to presence of tumor.

-Assess airway for patency. (Maintaining patent airway is always the first priority)

- Note the patient’s oxygen saturation. Oxygenation should be maintained at 90%. If the patient cannot
keep a saturation above 90%, supplemental oxygen might be required.

- Administer supplemental oxygen as ordered.

- Collaborate with respiratory therapists. (The patient might benefit from specialized treatment plans
such as chest physiotherapy or scheduled nebulizer treatments.)

2. Imbalanced Nutrition Less Than Body Requirements related to difficulty of swallowing

-Document the patient’s weight. (The patient’s weight is also an ideal tool in the assessment of a
person’s nutritional requirements)

-Create a daily weight chart and a food and fluid chart. Discuss with the patient the short term and long-
term nutrition and weight goals. (To effectively monitory the patient’s daily nutritional intake and
progress in weight goals.)

-Administer supplemental nutrition through the insertion of nasogastric tube or the administration of
parenteral nutrition as indicated by the physician. (In cases where the throat has been affected because
of tumor, supplemental nutrition may be necessary)

-Refer the patient to the dietitian and/or nutritionist. (A dietitian can help the medical team assess
the patient’s nutritional status and recommend food options that will supplement the patient’s
nutritional gaps.)

3. Impaired verbal communication related to vocal cord injury.

-Assess speech function periodically and encourage voice rest.

- Keep communication simple. Ask yes and no questions. (Reduces demand for response; promotes
voice rest.)

-Provide appropriate alternative communication methods. (o help him maximize his communication
skills.)

- Anticipate needs as much as possible. Visit client frequently. (Reduces anxiety and client’s need to
communicate.)

-Refer to speech therapist as indicated.

Diagnostic ang Laboratory Test

Imaging scans: CT or MRI scans provide detailed images of the body. A chest X-ray can see if cancer has
spread to the lungs.

Laryngoscopy: Your provider uses a thin, lighted tube called an endoscope to examine your larynx.
Biopsy: During a biopsy, your provider removes a small piece of any abnormal tissue in the larynx to
examine under a microscope.