For those who may be at risk for lung cancer, getting screened is an important step in staying healthy and gaining peace of mind. To learn more about lung cancer screening, we spoke with Sophia Wasserwald, MSN, CRNP, AGACNP-BC, a nurse practitioner and navigator for the Lung Cancer Screening Program at Pennsylvania Hospital and Penn Medicine Washington Square. In this Q & A, she outlines her role in the program and what patients need to know about the screening process.
What do you do as a nurse practitioner (NP) for patients at risk for lung cancer?
As a nurse practitioner, I see patients during clinic where I do a complete history and physical. I work collaboratively with the attending physician to evaluate the patient’s risk. I also perform procedures and provide patient counseling about lung disease and any education related to it.
When should people consider getting screened for lung cancer?
The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for patients between ages 55-77 with at least a 30-pack year smoking history who smoke or who have quit within the past 15 years. A “pack year” describes the amount smoked multiplied by the number of years. It could be more smoking for fewer years, or less smoking for many years.
How does the lung screening and risk management process work? How often should lung screening be done?
It really depends on the findings from the patient’s Low Dose CT (LDCT) scan. We work to develop a unique screening program tailored to each patient based on their risks and the findings on their LDCT. During their appointment, the patient will have a thorough history and physical, and smoking history will be discussed. I review the patient’s scans and possibly order additional tests. That decision is based on an individual assessment of risk, so the process may vary from patient to patient. I ensure that all the patient’s questions and concerns are answered and addressed during the visit, and follow up with patients in the following weeks or months. I am the navigator throughout this process and my goal is to work together with the patient to reduce their risk.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
That’s a tough one. I really love what I do and caring for patients. I love connecting with patients and having an influence on people’s lives. Everyone has a story and deserves to tell it. What I appreciate so much about this lung cancer screening program is that I help prevent people from falling through the cracks, and can help identify underlying lung diseases at an early stage.
Do you have any advice for people reading this who may be worried about getting lung cancer? What do you wish patients knew?
My advice to patients is to not be afraid to do this. Getting screened is taking a positive step toward managing their own health, and could impact them long-term by identifying any possible lung conditions. My goal is to decrease patients’ fears about the process and the stigma of smoking, hoping this eliminates any possible anxiety about getting screened. I want my patients to know that I am their advocate during this time and in the future, and I will be helping them throughout the entire process.
Take our assessment to find out if you should get screened for lung cancer.