Which instruction is most important for the nurse to give a client who is receiving radiation therapy for lung cancer when teaching about skin care?
Ice packs may be applied to the site for 30 minutes every hour for comfort
Wear loose soft clothing over the treated area
Do not share bathrooms or toilets with others for 48 hours after treatment
Incorporate rest periods within the day
The Correct Answer is B
A. Applying ice packs to the radiated area is not typically recommended, as it can cause additional skin irritation or damage. Skin care after radiation usually focuses on keeping the skin moisturized and protected.
B. Wear loose soft clothing over the treated area is the most important instruction because radiation therapy can cause skin irritation and sensitivity. Wearing loose, soft clothing helps to avoid further friction or irritation on the sensitive skin in the treated area.
C. Avoiding sharing bathrooms or toilets with others for 48 hours after treatment is not a required precaution for external radiation therapy, as there is no significant risk of radiation exposure to others through contact with shared bathroom facilities. This is more applicable to certain types of radioactive implants or internal radiation therapies.
D. While rest is important during cancer treatment, this instruction is more general and not as specific to skin care management during radiation therapy. The primary focus for skin care would be preventing irritation and damage to the skin in the radiated area.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["66.7"]
Explanation
Step 1: Write down the formula
Rate (mL/hr) = Total Volume (mL) ÷ Time (hours)
Step 2: Plug in the values
Rate = 1600 mL ÷ 24 hr
Step 3: Calculate
Rate = 66.6667 mL/hr
Step 4: Round to the nearest tenth
Rate ≈ 66.7 mL/hr
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Urticaria (hives) is not a common side effect of radiation therapy. The skin should be examined for localized radiation-induced skin changes, such as erythema or dryness, rather than generalized urticaria.
B. Radiation therapy can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. The nurse should monitor for signs of infection, especially in areas affected by radiation, as the skin and mucous membranes can become more vulnerable.
C. Low hemoglobin is not a direct or immediate concern related to radiation therapy for lung cancer. However, it could occur if the patient experiences bone marrow suppression, but this is not typically the primary concern for radiation therapy to the lung.
D. Xerostomia (dry mouth) is more commonly associated with radiation therapy to the head and neck area. Radiation to the lungs generally does not affect salivary glands, so monitoring for xerostomia is not necessary in this case.
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