Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test

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What is the significance of checking tumor markers in oncology?

Only used for diagnosis
Helps monitor treatment and recurrence
Indicates prognosis only
Is not clinically relevant

The correct answer is: Helps monitor treatment and recurrence

The significance of checking tumor markers in oncology lies primarily in their ability to help monitor treatment effectiveness and detect recurrence of the disease. Tumor markers are substances produced by cancer cells or by the body in response to cancer. When measured, they can provide valuable information regarding a patient's response to treatment. For instance, a decrease in tumor marker levels during therapy may suggest that the treatment is effective, while rising levels may indicate disease progression or recurrence. Furthermore, tumor markers can assist healthcare providers in making decisions about the continuation or modification of treatment plans. Therefore, their role in ongoing management of patients with cancer is critical, extending beyond the initial diagnosis to comprehensive patient care and follow-up. This monitoring capability is a key aspect of why tumor markers are a valuable tool in oncology.