A nurse is providing discharge teaching for a client who is postoperative following a simple mastectomy. The client is to begin outpatient radiation therapy the next day. Which of the following instructions about maintaining skin integrity should the nurse include?
Do not apply heat to the area of irradiation.
Use an antibiotic ointment to treat skin breakdown.
Lubricate the skin with hypoallergenic lotion.
Do not wash the area of irradiation.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Do not apply heat to the area of irradiation. This instruction is correct and should be included in the teaching. Applying heat to the area of irradiation can increase inflammation, pain, or burning sensation on the skin. The client should avoid heat sources such as hot water, heating pads, or sun exposure in the area of irradiation.
Choice B: Use an antibiotic ointment to treat skin breakdown. This instruction is not correct and should not be included in the teaching. Using an antibiotic ointment to treat skin breakdown can cause allergic reactions, infection, or interference with radiation therapy. The client should consult with her provider before using any topical products in the area of irradiation.
Choice C: Lubricate the skin with hypoallergenic lotion. This instruction is not correct and should not be included in the teaching. Lubricating the skin with hypoallergenic lotion can cause irritation, infection, or interference with radiation therapy. The client should avoid applying any lotions, creams, or oils on the area of irradiation unless prescribed by her provider.
Choice D: Do not wash the area of irradiation. This instruction is not correct and should not be included in the teaching. Washing the area of irradiation can help prevent infection, remove dead skin cells, and reduce odor. The client should wash the area of irradiation gently with mild soap and water, pat it dry, and avoid rubbing or scrubbing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Antiestrogens are not a first-line treatment for endometriosis, as they can cause severe side effects such as bone loss, hot flashes, and vaginal dryness.
Choice B reason: Progestins are a first-line treatment for endometriosis, as they can suppress the growth of endometrial tissue and reduce pain and bleeding.
Choice C reason: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues are a second-line treatment for endometriosis, as they can induce temporary menopause and cause bone loss, hot flashes, and mood changes.
Choice D reason: NSAIDs are not a treatment for endometriosis, as they can only provide symptomatic relief for pain and inflammation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Upper back pain is not the correct answer because it is not a common finding associated with uterine fibroids. Upper back pain is a feeling of discomfort or ache in the upper part of the back, between the shoulder blades, or below the neck. It can be caused by various factors such as muscle strain, poor posture, or spinal problems. It is not related to the presence or growth of benign tumors in the uterus.
Choice B: Chronic pelvic pain is the correct answer because it is a common finding associated with uterine fibroids. Chronic pelvic pain is a feeling of discomfort or ache in the lower abdomen or pelvis that lasts for more than six months. It can be caused by various factors such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or infection. It is also related to the presence or growth of benign tumors in the uterus, which can press on nerves, blood vessels, or organs and cause inflammation, bleeding, or scarring.
Choice C: Amenorrhea is not the correct answer because it is not a common finding associated with uterine fibroids. Amenorrhea is a condition that causes the absence of menstrual periods for more than three months in a woman who is not pregnant, breastfeeding, or menopausal. It can be caused by various factors such as hormonal imbalance, stress, or weight loss. It is not related to the presence or growth of benign tumors in the uterus, which can cause heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding instead.
Choice D: Diarrhea is not the correct answer because it is not a common finding associated with uterine fibroids. Diarrhea is a condition that causes loose, watery, or frequent stools. It can be caused by various factors such as infection, medication, or food intolerance. It is not related to the presence or growth of benign tumors in the uterus, which can cause constipation or bloating instead.
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