What is the best response by the nurse when a client asks if they have colon cancer after a polyp is removed?

The best response is that a biopsy will provide definitive information on whether the removed polyp contained malignant cells. After a polyp is excised, it is sent to a pathology lab where a detailed examination is performed. This examination determines whether any cancerous or precancerous cells are present. It is essential for the client to understand that not all polyps are cancerous; many are benign. Therefore, this response directly addresses the client's concern with accurate medical information, reinforcing the process of diagnosis and the importance of the biopsy results in determining their health status.

In contrast, asserting that polyps are always cancerous incorrectly generalizes the nature of polyps. Suggesting that the client is likely to have cancer without definitive evidence can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Classifying a condition based solely on symptoms without conclusive diagnostic evidence may lead to inaccurate conclusions and would not provide the client with the clarity they seek regarding their health.