A nurse discusses the self-care guidelines to minimize the side effects of radiation on the skin. Which self-care instructions can the nurse provide the client receiving radiation? [Select all that apply.]

Use a razor to shave the hair in the treated area.

Wash treated area gently with lukewarm water and mild soap.

Purchase aloe approved skin-care products

Wear loose-fitting, soft clothing over the treated skin.

Sun tan the affected area for no more than 30 minutes a day

Answer and Explanation

Correct Answer : B,C,D

A) Use a razor to shave the hair in the treated area:
Shaving the treated area with a razor is not recommended during radiation therapy. The skin in the treated area becomes sensitive and fragile, so shaving could cause irritation, cuts, or abrasions. Instead, clients are usually advised to use electric razors or avoid shaving the area altogether. This instruction should not be followed to minimize the risk of injury.

B) Wash treated area gently with lukewarm water and mild soap:
This is a key self-care instruction for clients receiving radiation. Gentle cleansing with lukewarm water and mild soap helps to avoid further irritation to the skin, which can become dry and sensitive during radiation therapy. The treated area should not be scrubbed or rubbed, as this can cause damage to the skin, exacerbate dryness, or cause skin breakdown. This guideline is appropriate and should be followed.

C) Purchase aloe-approved skin-care products:
Using aloe vera or skin-care products approved for use during radiation therapy can help soothe and moisturize the skin, which often becomes dry, irritated, or sunburned from radiation. It is important to use products that are specifically designed for use during radiation to avoid any potential irritants or allergens. Aloe-based products or products recommended by the healthcare provider can provide relief and reduce side effects.

D) Wear loose-fitting, soft clothing over the treated skin:
Wearing loose-fitting, soft clothing is a crucial self-care recommendation for clients undergoing radiation. Tight or rough fabrics can irritate the sensitive skin, potentially leading to discomfort or skin breakdown. Soft fabrics like cotton are ideal, as they allow the skin to breathe and help avoid further friction or pressure on the treated area. This is an important aspect of skin protection during radiation therapy.

E) Sun tan the affected area for no more than 30 minutes a day:
Sun tanning or exposing the treated skin to direct sunlight is strictly forbidden during and after radiation therapy. The skin in the treated area is much more sensitive to UV radiation and can burn easily, even with minimal sun exposure. It can increase the risk of skin damage and delayed healing. The client should be advised to avoid direct sun exposure entirely and to wear protective clothing and sunscreen if they must be outdoors.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) The UAP stands by the patient's bed for 60 minutes talking with the patient:
This action requires immediate intervention because of the potential radiation exposure to the UAP. A temporary radioactive cervical implant involves placing a radioactive source in or near the patient's cervix. This implant emits radiation, and safety precautions are essential to limit exposure to others, including healthcare workers. Prolonged close contact, such as standing by the patient's bed for 60 minutes, increases the risk of radiation exposure to the UAP.

B) The UAP gives the patient a saline mouthwash to use for oral care:
There are no specific contraindications to using a saline mouthwash for oral care in patients with a radioactive implant. Saline mouthwash is commonly recommended for patients undergoing radiation therapy to soothe the mouth and prevent dryness or irritation. As long as the UAP is following standard infection control and safety precautions.

C) The UAP places the patient's bedding in the laundry container inside the client's room:
Bedding and linens from a patient with a radioactive implant can usually be handled and disposed of according to hospital guidelines for radioactive waste. Often, these linens are not considered to pose a significant radiation hazard after removal from the patient’s immediate area, especially if the patient is not emitting radiation outside the prescribed safety guidelines.

D) The UAP flushes the toilet twice after emptying the patient's bedpan:
After the patient has a radioactive implant, any bodily waste (urine, stool) can potentially contain small amounts of radiation. Flushing the toilet twice helps to ensure that any radioactive materials are effectively cleared. However, the UAP should be instructed to wear gloves and take other precautions to prevent contamination while handling the bedpan and ensuring proper disposal of waste.

A. "Take one tablet every 15 during an acute attack." B. "Take this medication after each meal and at bedtime." C. "Take one tablet at the first indication of chest pain." D. ‘’Take this medication with 8 ounces of water."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) "Take one tablet every 15 minutes during an acute attack."
This is incorrect because the correct instruction is to take one tablet every 5 minutes for up to 3 doses during an acute angina attack, not every 15 minutes. If the chest pain persists after three doses, the client should seek immediate medical attention. Taking a tablet every 15 minutes would delay intervention and could be dangerous in an acute situation.

B) "Take this medication after each meal and at bedtime."
This is not the correct instruction for nitroglycerin use during an angina attack. Nitroglycerin tablets are typically used on an as-needed basis to relieve acute chest pain (angina). They are not intended for routine use after meals or at bedtime. If taken routinely for prevention of angina, the dosing regimen would be different, usually in the form of extended-release formulations.

C) "Take one tablet at the first indication of chest pain."
Nitroglycerin tablets are used to relieve chest pain (angina) by relaxing coronary arteries and improving blood flow to the heart. The client should take one tablet at the first sign of chest pain. If the pain does not resolve within 5 minutes, the client should take a second tablet, and a third if needed, with a total of 3 doses being the maximum before seeking emergency care. This allows for quick relief during an acute angina attack.

D) "Take this medication with 8 ounces of water."
Nitroglycerin tablets should not be taken with water. They are typically absorbed sublingually (under the tongue) and should not be swallowed or taken with water. Taking them with water could delay the absorption process and reduce their effectiveness.

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A nurse discusses the self-care guidelines to minimize the side effects of radiation on the skin. Which self-care instructions can the nurse provide the client receiving radiation? [Select all that apply.]

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse supervises the care of a patient with a temporary radioactive cervical implant. Which action by unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), if observed by the nurse, would require immediate intervention?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is teaching a client who has angina pectoris about starting therapy with nitroglycerin tablets. The nurse should include which of the following instructions regarding how to take the medication?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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