The PSA Test is used for screening which type of Cancer?

Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2025

Explanation

Prostate Cancer because PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen.
PSA is a protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland, a small gland located below the bladder in men.
A blood test to measure PSA levels is a standard and primary screening tool used for the early detection of prostate cancer.
While other conditions can elevate PSA, its specificity to the prostate makes it the key marker for this type of cancer.

Option A: Screening for lung cancer does not involve the PSA test. The PSA test is specific to the prostate.
Option C: Breast cancer screening uses different methods, primarily mammography. The PSA test is not relevant for detecting breast cancer.
Option D: Screening for skin cancer involves visual inspection of the skin, not a blood test like the PSA test.

Visual 1: Infographic: A simple visual explaining what the PSA test is, who should consider it, and what the results might mean.
Visual 2: Anatomical Diagram: A clear illustration showing the location of the prostate gland in the male pelvis to help understand why the antigen is 'prostate-specific'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Use of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test in cancer screening as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a vital role in patient education regarding prostate cancer screening. This includes explaining the PSA test, its benefits, and its limitations (e.g., potential for false positives) to facilitate informed, shared decision-making with the healthcare provider.
It is crucial for nurses to understand that screening recommendations vary based on age and risk factors (family history, ethnicity), and to be able to discuss these with patients.
The PSA test is often performed along with a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) for a more comprehensive assessment of prostate health.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'PSA Test'.
Recall or deduce the meaning of the acronym. 'P' in PSA stands for 'Prostate'.
The full term is Prostate-Specific Antigen, which directly links the test to the prostate gland.
Scan the options to find the cancer related to the prostate.
Select 'Prostate Cancer' as the correct answer, as the name of the test itself points to the organ it screens.
Mentally eliminate the other options by recalling their primary screening methods (e.g., mammogram for breast, skin check for skin cancer).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Brunner and Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing p. 165-167

Practise the full Raj. CHO -2025

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.