Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and causes the most deaths. This specific tumor originates in the melanocytes of the epidermis layer of the skin. Melanocytes are responsible for producing the pigments in the skin. Melanoma typically looks like an abnormal mole on the skin. A majority of the time the spots are black or brown in color, but in some cases can be skin colored, pink, red, purple, blue, or white. This form of skin cancer affects nearly twice as many men as women. In 2016 it is estimated that 46,870 men will be diagnosed with invasive melanomas, and 29,510 women will also be diagnosed (Melanoma, 2016).
Everyone is at some risk for melanoma, but increased risk depends on several factors including sun exposure, …show more content…
This means that whoever is providing care is responsible for making sure that the patient is able to change their own dressing once they go home. In order to do this the nurse should change the initial dress herself, but explain what they are doing along the way. Then they should get verbal understanding from the patient. In addition to this they should make sure the patient does not have any infections at the site of the incision. At this point the patient should be feeling a relief of pain, and can soon be sent home. When discharging a patient it is important that the caregiver provides them with the necessary materials for a proper dressing change. The patient should also return home with written instructions on how to correctly take their antibiotics, and pain medication (A Client with Malignant Melanoma, p.1).
Although malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer it is easily preventable, and can be treated. When possible precautions should be taken to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. It is important to see a doctor is you are exhibiting any of the signs or