A 50-year-old female driver informs you that 2 years ago she had a mastectomy as a result of breast cancer. She has healed completely andis now following an annual screening program. She is taking Enjuvia (Conjugated Estrogen) as a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as she is suffering from severe menopause symptoms. Other than possible side effects from HRT medications, what important issues in relation to her medical history must you discuss and query?
Explanation
Answer: C - Recent changes in her health condition, the symptoms of menopause, and her overall psychological well-being
You must query recent changes in the subject driver’s health conditions, because HRT is known to increase breast density, making mammograms more difficult to read and thus, increasing the likelihood of missing early signs of recurring breast cancer. In addition, severe menopause symptoms may include insomnia and sleep disturbance, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and mood changes.You must carefully evaluate the mental condition of this driver following her mastectomy and menopause treatment. This driver may be susceptible to emotional or adjustment problems that may contribute directly to her level of memory, reasoning, attention, and judgment and thus her driving ability.
