A client who is undergoing external beam radiation for prostate cancer has developed desquamation of the skin in the treatment area. Which of the following statements should the nurse plan to include for this patient? (Select all that apply.)
Leave the affected area open to air when you are at home.
Limit ice-pack application to the area to 20 minutes at a time.
Lubricate the area with an alcohol-based lotion.
You may use aloe vera gel on the affected skin.
Clean the area with betadine to prevent infection.
Correct Answer : A,D
A. Allowing the affected skin to be exposed to air can help in promoting healing and preventing further irritation. However, it's essential to ensure the environment is clean and that the area is protected from friction and contamination.
B. Ice packs should be avoided as they can cause further irritation to the radiated skin, and alcohol- based lotions can be drying and may exacerbate skin reactions.
C. Alcohol-based lotions can be drying and irritating to sensitive, radiation-treated skin. It's preferable to use gentle, non-alcohol-based moisturizers or barrier creams that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. These can help soothe the skin and prevent excessive dryness and irritation.
D. Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing of radiation-damaged skin. It is gentle and generally well-tolerated by most individuals.
E. Betadine (povidone-iodine) can be too harsh for radiation-damaged skin and may further irritate the area. Gentle cleansing with mild soap and water is recommended to keep the area clean and minimize the risk of infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Atrial flutter typically presents with a regular atrial rate (usually around 250-350 beats per minute) and a characteristic "sawtooth" pattern of flutter waves (F-waves) on the ECG. This condition would not present with irregular ventricular rates and is less likely based on the ECG findings described.
B. Atrial fibrillation is identified by an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of P-waves on the ECG, which is replaced by erratic activity.
C. Unstable angina presents with chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, usually related to atherosclerotic plaque rupture or erosion. It does not cause the ECG findings described (absence of P-waves and irregular ventricular rate).
D. PACs are early atrial depolarizations that can cause palpitations but do not typically result in the absence of P-waves or irregular ventricular rates as described in the scenario.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The soles of the feet are not typically assessed for cyanosis because they are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. Cyanosis is best evaluated in areas where mucous membranes are visible.
B. Similar to the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands are not a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. Cyanosis is not typically visible on the palms unless there are severe systemic circulation issues.
C. The oral mucosa (inside the mouth) is a reliable area to assess for central cyanosis. The nurse can inspect the lips, tongue, and buccal mucosa for a bluish discoloration, which indicates decreased arterial oxygen saturation.
D. The nail beds are also a reliable indicator of central cyanosis. The nurse can assess the color of the nail beds and look for bluish discoloration, which can be more apparent in darker-skinned individuals compared to the lips and oral mucosa.
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