A nurse is teaching a client who has fibromyalgia about self-care strategies for managing the disorder. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A reason : Acting as if the hallucination is real can validate the client's false perceptions and potentially reinforce the hallucination. It is important to maintain a sense of reality and not to enter into the client's hallucinatory experience.

Choice B reason : Instructing the client to argue with the voices is not therapeutic. It can increase the client's agitation and anxiety, and it does not help in distinguishing reality from hallucinations.

Choice C reason : While it is important to understand the client's experience, asking direct questions about the hallucination may lead the client to focus more on the hallucination, which can reinforce its presence. The nurse should focus on reality-based topics.

Choice D reason : This is the correct action. The nurse should gently and firmly reassure the client that the hallucination is not real and is a symptom of their illness. This helps to orient the client to reality and can reduce the distress associated with hallucinations.

Choice A reason : A sore throat is a common side effect of radiation therapy to the neck area, particularly for cancer of the larynx. The radiation can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat and laryngeal tissues, leading to pain and discomfort when swallowing¹⁵. This side effect can be managed with pain relief medications and dietary adjustments to include softer foods and liquids.

Choice B reason : Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when radiation damages the salivary glands, reducing saliva production. This can lead to difficulties in speaking, tasting, chewing, and swallowing, as well as an increased risk of dental problems¹³. Patients undergoing radiation therapy are often advised to stay hydrated and may be prescribed saliva substitutes or stimulants.

Choice C reason : Radiation to the neck might damage the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. Symptoms of thyroid problems due to radiation can include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and having dry skin or hair³. Regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended for patients who have received radiation therapy in the neck area.

Choice D reason : Lymphedema is swelling that can occur when radiation therapy affects the lymph nodes and vessels, impeding the flow of lymph fluid. In the context of neck radiation, this can lead to swelling in the neck and face³. Management includes physical therapy, compression garments, and careful skin care to prevent infection.