Which instruction regarding skin care should the nurse provide to a client who is receiving radiation therapy for metastatic breast cancer?
Protect the site from getting wet during bathing.
Gently pat the skin dry after rinsing with water.
Frequently apply moisturizers to prevent dry skin.
Use a sponge to debride the affected area.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Protect the site from getting wet during bathing. While it is important to avoid prolonged soaking, gentle rinsing with water is usually allowed. Complete avoidance of water is not typically necessary. Gentle bathing is important for hygiene.
B. Gently patting the skin dry after rinsing with water is a good practice as it helps to minimize friction and irritation to the sensitive skin. Rubbing or scrubbing the skin should be avoided.
C. Applying moisturizers to prevent dry skin can be beneficial for overall skin health, but it is important to consult with the healthcare team and follow specific instructions regarding the use of moisturizers during radiation therapy. Certain types of moisturizers or creams may interfere with the radiation treatment or cause skin irritation. Frequent application is not always necessary. Over-hydration can soften the skin and increase vulnerability.
D. Using a sponge to debride the affected area is not recommended during radiation therapy. The skin in the radiation treatment field is already sensitive and prone to damage, and using a sponge for debridement can further traumatize the skin. It is important to avoid any abrasive or rough handling of the treated skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Regular weighing is an essential self-management strategy for clients with heart failure (HF). It helps monitor changes in fluid balance, which is crucial in managing HF symptoms. Sudden weight gain may indicate fluid retention, a worsening of HF, or the need for adjustments in medications or dietary restrictions. Daily weighing provides valuable information for both the client and healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the HF management plan.
While performing range of motion exercises and maintaining mobility are important for overall health, they may not be specifically related to the management of heart failure. The focus of discharge teaching for HF is typically on monitoring symptoms, medication management, diet and fluid restrictions, and when to seek medical attention.
Limiting fluid intake to 1,500 mL daily may be a general recommendation for some clients with HF, but it is best to individualize fluid restrictions based on the client's specific needs. The client should follow the fluid restriction prescribed by their healthcare provider, which may vary depending on the severity of HF and other individual factors.
While maintaining a balanced diet, including adequate protein intake, is important for overall health, there may be specific dietary recommendations for clients with HF that go beyond a general instruction to eat a high protein diet. Dietary instructions for HF clients typically include sodium restriction, fluid restriction if necessary, and considerations for comorbidities and medications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Incorrect- Dullness bilaterally on percussion is not a normal finding, but it is not an immediate concern after thoracentesis. It may indicate fluid accumulation or consolidation in both lungs, which could be related to other conditions such as pneumonia or heart failure.
B) Incorrect- Serosanguinous drainage from the chest tube is expected after thoracentesis, as long as it is not excessive or continuous. The nurse should monitor the amount and color of the drainage and document it accordingly.
C) Incorrect- Diminished breath sounds in the left lower lobe are also expected after thoracentesis, as the procedure removes fluid and air from the pleural space and reduces lung expansion. The nurse should auscultate the lungs before and after the procedure and compare the findings. The breath sounds should improve gradually as the lung re-expands.
D) Correct- This is a sign of tension pneumothorax, which is a life-threatening complication of thoracentesis. Tension pneumothorax occurs when air accumulates in the pleural space and creates positive pressure that pushes the mediastinum (the heart, great vessels, and trachea) to the opposite side of the chest. This can impair venous return, cardiac output, and respiratory function. The nurse should report this finding to the healthcare provider immediately and prepare to assist with needle decompression or chest tube insertion.
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