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Reassuring the client that alopecia is temporary may not always be accurate, as hair loss can be permanent or prolonged depending on the cause (e.g., chemotherapy, autoimmune disorders). Providing false reassurance can undermine trust.

Telling the client that there are worse side effects minimizes the client’s feelings and does not address their emotional distress, potentially leading to feelings of invalidation.

Teaching the client ways to protect the scalp (e.g., sunscreen or hats) is important for physical protection but does not fully address the psychosocial impact of hair loss, such as body image and self-esteem concerns.

Letting the client know that he should be screened annually as an African American is too prescriptive; screening frequency should be based on shared decision-making between the client and provider.

Informing the client that recommendations vary, so screening is a personal choice is partially correct but lacks emphasis on his higher risk due to race and age, which are key considerations in prostate cancer education.

Giving the client written information that discourages screening until age 70 is incorrect, as men at higher risk (such as African American men or those with a family history) are advised to discuss screening earlier, typically around age 45 or even 40.

Suggesting genetic testing so the client can understand his risks is premature and unnecessary at this stage. Occasional knee pain after physical activity is common and not an indication for genetic testing without further assessment.

Telling the client that it is unlikely that he has bone cancer dismisses his fears and minimizes his emotional distress, potentially damaging trust and communication.

Asking the client why he thinks the pain isn't a result of hiking can sound confrontational and invalidating, rather than supportive or therapeutic. The nurse should focus on empathy and ensuring the client receives proper evaluation.

This statement shows correct understanding. Processed meats like bacon contain nitrates and nitrites, which are linked to an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancers.

This statement is accurate. Diets rich in fiber and plant-based foods help promote gastrointestinal health and reduce cancer risk.

This statement is correct. These vitamins have antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage that could lead to cancer.

Anemia due to long-term bleeding can occur with various chronic conditions, but it is not specific to prostate cancer progression. It is more common in gastrointestinal or hematologic malignancies.

Blood in the urine or semen (hematuria or hematospermia) is an early sign of prostate or urinary tract involvement rather than a sign of advancing disease.

A dark-colored or elevated lesion is more characteristic of skin cancer, such as melanoma, not prostate cancer.

This is a nontherapeutic and discouraging response. It validates the client’s fear in a negative way and may increase anxiety rather than foster hope or coping. Nurses should avoid agreeing with pessimistic statements that can erode trust and confidence in treatment.

This response dismisses the client’s immediate concern and transfers responsibility to another person. While referrals are appropriate later, the nurse’s first role is to listen, acknowledge the emotion, and provide initial support.

This response provides useful information but fails to address the emotional aspect of the client’s worry. The nurse must explore what specifically concerns the client before involving other team members.

Washing with plain soap and water can further irritate the sensitive, radiated skin. Harsh soaps and frequent washing remove protective oils and worsen dryness and redness. Clients should use only mild, fragrance-free cleansers if washing is necessary.

Applying moist heat is contraindicated. Radiated skin is already fragile and at risk for breakdown and burns; heat therapy increases the likelihood of further tissue injury.

Sitting in the sun for 10 min per day is unsafe because ultraviolet exposure exacerbates radiation-induced skin damage, increases discomfort, and delays healing.