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. During chemotherapy, many patients experience nausea, vomiting, and changes in taste or appetite. Spicy and highly-seasoned foods can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms and may not be well tolerated. It's generally recommended to encourage bland, easy-to-digest foods to help maintain adequate nutrition and reduce discomfort.
B. Loperamide is not used to prevent nausea; rather, it is an antidiarrheal medication used to treat diarrhea, which can be a side effect of chemotherapy. Nausea prevention is typically managed with antiemetic medications such as ondansetron, metoclopramide, or others prescribed based on the patient's specific needs and chemotherapy regimen.
C. Pain management is an essential aspect of caring for oncology patients, including those receiving chemotherapy. Cancer and its treatment can cause pain directly or indirectly (such as from procedures or complications). Regular and thorough pain assessments allow for timely intervention and improvement in the client's comfort and quality of life.
D. Chemotherapy medications are typically administered through central venous access devices (e.g., central lines, PICC lines) rather than through peripheral veins. This is because chemotherapy drugs can be vesicants (causing tissue damage if they leak out of the vein) or irritants to smaller peripheral veins.
Using a larger gauge peripheral line (e.g., 18 gauge) is not standard practice for administering chemotherapy due to the potential risks and complications associated with peripheral administration.
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