Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Certification Practice Exam

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer and is typically characterized by a slow growth pattern, making early intervention crucial. The recommended treatment for BCC is surgical excision or a biopsy technique such as shave or punch biopsy, which allows for both diagnosis and removal of the cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy skin. Surgical excision is effective in ensuring complete removal of the tumor and reducing the risk of recurrence. This approach takes advantage of the defined borders of BCCs, allowing for precise excision. Additionally, using biopsy techniques such as shave or punch helps establish a definitive diagnosis before proceeding with further interventions. Other treatment options for BCC may include topical treatments or Mohs micrographic surgery, but the primary and most effective first-line treatment remains surgical options like excision or biopsy. Systemic chemotherapy is generally not a standard treatment for BCC since the condition is usually localized and does not respond well to systemic agents. Similarly, topical antifungal medication is inappropriate as it does not target cancer cells, and laser therapy, while useful for some skin conditions, is not sufficient as a standalone treatment for BCC. Therefore, the combination of shave/punch biopsy and surgical excision represents the most effective and recommended