Assignment 1: Case Study Assignment: Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children
Case Study Assignment 1
Adults and Children Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests
Assessment tools aid in the diagnosis of a variety of health problems. A good tool should be highly accurate and dependable. The burden of breast cancer continues to rise in the modern era, necessitating the development of more precise tools to improve screening and diagnostic accuracy.
The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of mammograms in detecting breast cancer.
The Test’s Purpose
A mammogram is a screening tool that is used exclusively for diagnostic purposes and provides sufficient imaging to detect breast carcinoma. When performed early in the disease’s progression, there is a greater chance of obtaining a favorable prognosis, which results in an increased chance of patient survival (Le & Adler, 2020). It is essentially a breast x-ray. This imaging technique produces a pictorial representation of the breast using a low x-ray dose. Women are encouraged to have the test performed on a regular basis to aid in the early detection of breast cancer, as cancer is one of the
Assignment 1 Case Study Assignment Assessment Tools and Diagnostic Tests in Adults and Children
leading causes of death in women (Seely & Alhassan, 2018). Late detection results in a poor prognosis, as the cancerous cells spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more difficult.
The mammogram is intended to aid in the detection of changes in the breast tissue. The test is capable of detecting microcalcifications smaller than 100 micrometres in diameter; thus, it can detect the possibility of cancer in a patient even before palpable lumps form. Additionally, because the test involves only one or two views of the breast tissues, it provides an accurate image of the breast.
Alternatively, the test is performed in symptomatic patients to aid in pre-operative localization.
Conducting the Test Appropriate preparation is critical in order to obtain the most accurate results possible from the imaging assessment tool. Patients are advised not to wear talcum powders prior to having a mammogram assessment, as they are very likely to produce calcium artifacts, resulting in false-positive results. While interviewing the patient to collect data for the clinical history, it is critical for the patient to be candid about any underlying conditions. Additionally, the radiologist should ensure that their patients understand the significance of the test and what to expect in order to alleviate anxiety. The patient who has been prepared is instructed to stand in front of the x-ray machine with their breasts secured on a plastic plate. The plate is firmly pressed against the breasts to flatten them and allow the x-ray to penetrate (Mack & Lapane, 2019). Additionally, the flattening is intended to achieve an even thickness and increase the sensitivity of the test procedure for detecting brain abnormalities. Because x-rays can be harmful to your health, it is recommended that you use a low-dose x-ray. The scattering of the rays must be avoided in order for them to reach other parts of the body, which is accomplished by compressing the breasts (Le & Adler, 2020).
Alternatively, a full-field digital electron system may be used to obtain a digital mammogram. The computer is used to transfer the images acquired during the radiological analysis. Digitalization increases the diagnostic procedure’s accuracy by reducing human error. Tomosynthesis is a type of three-dimensional mammography that generates numerous images of the breast from various angles.
Variations in calcium distribution and tissue densities are identified and used to make a diagnosis using the image.
Information Amassed
The test reveals the breast’s mass distribution, the presence of lumps, and areas of calcification. Because palpating cannot detect the minute calcium deposits in the breast, the tests identify the microcalcifications in the breast tissue (Iranmakani et al., 2020).
Mammography Validity, Sensitivity, and Reliability Sensitivity
A valid test should be capable of detecting true positives and negatives. On the other hand, various factors affect the sensitivity and specificity of the tests. As a result, there will always be instances of false positive or negative results. Mammography is a reliable and valid test because it provides comprehensive imaging of the breast and thus aids in detecting even microcalcifications (Badu-Peprah & Adu-Sarkodie, 2018). Additionally, the test is standardized, which reduces the variability in the reporting of results.
Digital mammograms are more precise and dependable than film mammograms. According to Giampietro et al. (2020), the breast mammogram’s estimated sensitivity value is 87 percent, which is significantly higher. On the other hand, approximately 7% of true cases are typically negative.
False positives, on the other hand, can be addressed by taking multiple images to ensure that only those with breast cancer are reported to have the disease. On the other hand, the majority of false-positive cases occur in patients undergoing hormonal therapy, as the procedure increases breast density, which may be mistaken for cancer. Mammograms have a positive predictive value of 89 percent and a negative predictive value of 90.9 percent, respectively (Giampietro et al., 2020).
The test’s high predictive value indicates its reliability.
Conclusion
Finally, a reliable test should generate consistent results, which is a component of predictive value or reproducibility. Mammography has a high predictive value, making it a valid and reliable test for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Additionally, the test has a low rate of reported false-positive results.
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When seeking to identify a patient’s health condition, advanced practice nurses can use a diverse selection of diagnostic tests and assessment tools; however, different factors affect the validity and reliability of the results produced by these tests or tools. Nurses must be aware of these factors in order to select the most appropriate test or tool and to accurately interpret the results.
Not only do these diagnostic tests affect adults, but body measurements can also provide a general picture of whether a child is receiving adequate nutrition or is at risk for health issues. These data, however, are just one aspect to be considered. Lifestyle, family history, and culture—among other factors—are also relevant. That said, gathering and communicating this information can be a delicate process.
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For this Assignment, you will consider the validity and reliability of different assessment tools and diagnostic tests. You will explore issues such as sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. You will also consider examples of children with various weight issues. You will explore how you could effectively gather information and encourage parents and caregivers to be proactive about their children’s health and weight.
To Prepare
Review this week’s Learning Resources and consider factors that impact the validity and reliability of various assessment tools and diagnostic tests. You also will review examples of pediatric patients and their families as it relates to BMI.
By Day 1 of this week, you will be assigned to one of the following Assignment options by your Instructor: Adult Assessment Tools or Diagnostic Tests (option 1), or Child Health Case (Option 2). Note: Please see the “Course Announcements” section of the classroom for your assignments from your Instructor.
Search the Walden Library and credible sources for resources explaining the tool or test you were assigned. What is its purpose, how is it conducted, and what information does it gather?
Also, as you search the Walden library and credible sources, consider what the literature discusses regarding the validity, reliability, sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, ethical dilemmas, and controversies related to the test or tool.
If you are assigned Assignment Option 2 (Child), consider what health issues and risks may be relevant to the child in the health example.
Based on the risks you identified, consider what further information you would need to gain a full understanding of the child’s health. Think about how you could gather this information in a sensitive fashion.
Consider how you could encourage parents or caregivers to be proactive toward the child’s health.
The Assignment
Assignment (3–4 pages, not including title and reference pages):
Assignment Option 1: Adult Assessment Tools or Diagnostic Tests:
Include the following:
A description of how the assessment tool or diagnostic test you were assigned is used in healthcare.
What is its purpose?
How is it conducted?
What information does it gather?
Based on your research, evaluate the test or the tool’s validity and reliability, and explain any issues with sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Include references in appropriate APA formatting.
Assignment Option 2: Child Health Case:
Include the following:
An explanation of the health issues and risks that are relevant to the child you were assigned.
Describe additional information you would need in order to further assess his or her weight-related health.
Identify and describe any risks and consider what further information you would need to gain a full understanding of the child’s health. Think about how you could gather this information in a sensitive fashion.
Taking into account the parents’ and caregivers’ potential sensitivities, list at least three specific questions you would ask about the child to gather more information.
Provide at least two strategies you could employ to encourage the parents or caregivers to be proactive about their child’s health and weight.
By Day 6 of Week 3
Submit your Assignment.
Submission and Grading Information
To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:
Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK3Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.
Click the Week 3 Assignment 1 Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.
Click the Week 3 Assignment 1 link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.
Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK3Assgn1+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.
If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.
Name: NURS_6512_Week_3_Assignment_1_Rubric_Option_1
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In 3–4 pages, address the following:
A description of how the assessment tool or diagnostic test you were assigned is used in healthcare.
o What is its purpose?
o How is it conducted?
o What information does it gather?
Points Range: 30 (30%) – 35 (35%)
The response clearly, accurately, and with specific detail describes how the assessment tool or diagnostic test assigned is used in healthcare, including its purpose, how it is conducted, and what information it gathers.
Points Range: 24 (24%) – 29 (29%)
The response accurately describes how the assessment tool or diagnostic test assigned is used in healthcare, including its purpose, how it is conducted, and what information it gathers.
Points Range: 18 (18%) – 23 (23%)
The response vaguely and/or with some inaccuracy describes how the assessment tool or diagnostic test assigned is used in healthcare, including its purpose, how it is conducted, and what information it gathers.
Points Range: 0 (0%) – 17 (17%)
The response is inaccurate or missing descriptions of how the assessment tool or diagnostic test assigned is used in healthcare, including its purpose, how it is conducted, and what information it gathers.
Based on your research, evaluate the test or the tool’s validity and reliability, and explain any issues with sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values.
Points Range: 45 (45%) – 50 (50%)
The response accurately and thoroughly evaluates the test or tool’s validity and reliability, and explains any issues with clear sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Student’s research is clear, accurate, and appropriate for the evaluation.
Points Range: 39 (39%) – 44 (44%)
The response accurately evaluates the test or tool’s validity and reliability, and explains any issues with sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Student’s research is somewhat clear, accurate,and appropriate for the evaluation.
Points Range: 33 (33%) – 38 (38%)
The response vaguely and/or with some inaccuracy evaluates the test or tool’s validity and reliability, and explains any issues with some sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Student’s research is vague or inaccurate for the evaluation.
Points Range: 0 (0%) – 32 (32%)
“The response is inaccurate and/or missing evaluations of the test or tool’s validity and reliability, with explanations of any issues missing or lacking sensitivity, reliability, and predictive values. Student’s research is missing, inaccurate, or lacking for the evaluation.
Written Expression and Formatting – Paragraph Development and Organization:
Paragraphs make clear points that support well-developed ideas, flow logically, and demonstrate continuity of ideas. Sentences are carefully focused–neither long and rambling nor short and lacking substance. A clear and comprehensive purpose statement and introduction are provided that delineate all required criteria.
Points Range: 5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity. A clear and comprehensive purpose statement, introduction, and conclusion are provided that delineate all required criteria.
Points Range: 4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity 80% of the time. Purpose, introduction, and conclusion of the assignment are stated, yet are brief and not descriptive.
Points Range: 3 (3%) – 3 (3%)
Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity 60%–79% of the time. Purpose, introduction, and conclusion of the assignment are vague or off topic.
Points Range: 0 (0%) – 2 (2%)
Paragraphs and sentences follow writing standards for flow, continuity, and clarity < 60% of the time. No purpose statement, introduction, or conclusion were provided.
Written Expression and Formatting – English writing standards:
Correct grammar, mechanics, and proper punctuation
Points Range: 5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Uses correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation with no errors.
Points Range: 4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Contains a few (1 or 2) grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Points Range: 3 (3%) – 3 (3%)
Contains several (3 or 4) grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Points Range: 0 (0%) – 2 (2%)
Contains many (≥ 5) grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors that interfere with the reader’s understanding.
Written Expression and Formatting – The paper follows correct APA format for title page, headings, font, spacing, margins, indentations, page numbers, running heads, parenthetical/in-text citations, and reference list.
Points Range: 5 (5%) – 5 (5%)
Uses correct APA format with no errors.
Points Range: 4 (4%) – 4 (4%)
Contains a few (1 or 2) APA format errors.
Points Range: 3 (3%) – 3 (3%)
Contains several (3 or 4) APA format errors.
Points Range: 0 (0%) – 2 (2%)
Contains many (≥ 5) APA format errors.
Total Points: 100
Name: NURS_6512_Week_3_Assignment_1_Rubric_Option_1
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