A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Xerostomia
Epistaxis
Tinnitus
Diplopia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Xerostomia: Radiation therapy to the head and neck often damages the salivary glands, leading to xerostomia, or dry mouth. This can cause difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and an increased risk of oral infections. Providing oral hydration and saliva substitutes can help manage this side effect.
B. Epistaxis: While radiation therapy can cause mucosal irritation, epistaxis (nosebleeds) is not a common side effect. Epistaxis is more frequently associated with conditions such as nasal trauma, clotting disorders, or chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia rather than localized radiation therapy.
C. Tinnitus: Radiation therapy does not typically cause tinnitus, which is more commonly linked to ototoxic medications, prolonged noise exposure, or inner ear disorders. If a tumor or treatment affects the auditory structures, hearing-related symptoms may occur but are not a primary radiation side effect.
D. Diplopia: Double vision is not a usual complication of radiation therapy to the head and neck. Diplopia is more commonly associated with neurological conditions, cranial nerve dysfunction, or ocular disorders rather than radiation-induced effects on surrounding tissues.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "I should use a heating pad when my feet are cold.": Clients with diabetes mellitus may have reduced sensation due to peripheral neuropathy. Using a heating pad increases the risk of burns or injury due to the inability to perceive excessive heat.
B. "I should plan to remain barefoot while I am at home.": Walking barefoot increases the risk of foot injuries, which can lead to infections and complications such as diabetic ulcers. Clients should always wear well-fitting shoes, even at home, to protect their feet.
C. "I should apply lotion between my toes twice a day.": Moisturizing the feet is important to prevent dryness and cracking, but applying lotion between the toes can create excess moisture, increasing the risk of fungal infections.
D. "I should file the edges of my toenails after trimming them.": Filing the edges helps smooth sharp corners, reducing the risk of ingrown toenails and foot injuries, which can be difficult to heal in individuals with diabetes.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hospice care services: Hospice care is designed for clients with terminal illnesses who require end-of-life care. Crohn’s disease and an ileostomy do not indicate a terminal condition, making hospice services inappropriate for this client.
B. Long-term care facility: Long-term care facilities are for clients who need continuous medical or personal care and are unable to live independently. Most clients with an ileostomy can manage their care at home with proper education and support, making this resource unnecessary.
C. Rehabilitation center: Rehabilitation centers are primarily for clients recovering from major injuries, strokes, or surgeries that impair mobility or function. While an ileostomy requires adjustment, it does not typically necessitate inpatient rehabilitation.
D. Visiting nurse services: Home health nurses provide essential support for clients with a new ileostomy by assisting with ostomy care, monitoring for complications, and reinforcing self-care education. This service helps facilitate a smoother transition to independent ostomy management.
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