What should be avoided when examining a patient with Wilms tumor?

When examining a patient with Wilms tumor, palpating the abdomen should be avoided due to the risk of rupturing the tumor. Wilms tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, is a pediatric kidney cancer that can often be palpable as a large abdominal mass in children. Manipulating or deeply palpating this area can lead to complications, such as spillage of tumor contents, which could spread cancerous cells and increase the risk of metastasis.

While checking blood pressure, assessing lung sounds, or taking temperature are standard assessments that do not pose a similar risk, they are safely conducted without the concern of exacerbating the patient's condition. Thus, avoiding abdominal palpation is crucial in managing the well-being of a patient suspected of having or diagnosed with Wilms tumor.