Colon, rectal, and anal cancers.

OBJECTIVES

To review the incidence, risk factors, staging, diagnosis, and treatment of colon, rectal, and anal cancers, as well as nursing care associated with managing patients diagnosed with these malignancies.

DATA SOURCES

Published research reports, epidemiologic data, published patient management guidelines, and institution-based clinical tools.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant advances in the management of colon, rectal, and anal cancers in the past decade have extended patient survival. Further clinical research will refine current therapeutic strategies and treatment decision-making aids while minimizing symptoms of disease and treatment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses need to be familiar with risk factors, disease course, and current and emerging therapies to assist patients with treatment decision-making, and to anticipate and intervene in managing disease and treatment-induced problems. Early identification and management of distressing symptoms can help to avoid life-threatening effects and promote patient adherence to prescribed therapies; timely patient/family education may minimize anxiety and promote self-management.