Radiation Therapy Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of radiation therapy in cancer treatment?

To cure or control cancer that has spread to local lymph nodes

To treat tumors that cannot be removed surgically

To slow the growth of malignant tumors

All of the above (correct)

How can radiation therapy be delivered to patients?

Only externally

Only internally

Both externally and internally (correct)

Neither externally nor internally

What is the primary nursing consideration when caring for a patient receiving external radiation therapy?

Exposing the radiated area to direct sunlight

Applying heat or cold to the radiated area

Applying lotions and creams to the radiated area

Ensuring the patient's skin remains dry (correct)

What is the primary dietary consideration for a patient receiving radiation therapy?

Consuming foods high in protein and calories Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary adverse effect of external radiation therapy on the skin?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Why is meticulous planning and recording of radiation doses essential in radiation therapy?

Both a and c Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended daily fluid intake for the patient undergoing internal radiation therapy?

2 to 3 L Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of placing an indwelling urinary catheter for the patient undergoing internal radiation therapy?

To reduce the size of the bladder and decrease the effects of radiation on the bladder Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for encouraging the patient to consume a low-residue diet during internal radiation therapy?

To minimize peristalsis and bowel movements, which may lead to dislodgment of the applicator Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary nursing implication for the patient undergoing internal radiation therapy with a radioactive applicator?

Preventing the applicator from becoming dislodged Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if an applicator or other radioactive materials become dislodged from the patient during internal radiation therapy?

Never touch the dislodged materials because they may be radioactive Signup and view all the answers

How long is sexual intercourse typically delayed after the removal of the radioactive applicator?

7 to 10 days Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for encouraging the patient to perform active range-of-motion exercises during internal radiation therapy?

To minimize the complications that can result from immobility Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of monitoring the patient's vital signs every 4 hours during internal radiation therapy?

To detect any signs of infection or other complications Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is typically performed after the removal of the radioactive applicator?

Administering a douche and enema Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fluid Intake and Hydration

Patients should drink 2-3 liters of fluid per day, unless contraindicated.
Severe anorexia or inability to tolerate food and fluid intake should be reported to the healthcare provider.

Internal Radiation

The applicator is placed in the vagina to treat cervical cancer.
A "Radiation in Use" sign should be placed on the patient's door.
The patient should be on strict bed rest, avoiding turning from side to side or onto the abdomen.
The head of the bed should not be raised more than 45 degrees.
No complete bed baths or bathing below the waist should be done while the applicator is in place.
Bed linen should only be changed if necessary.
Active range-of-motion exercises with arms and mild foot and leg exercises should be encouraged.
Patients should wear antiembolism stockings or pneumatic compression boots to prevent stasis of blood in the lower extremities.

Monitoring and Care

Vital signs should be monitored every 4 hours, with reports of elevations in temperature, pulse, and respirations.
A temperature higher than 100°F (37.7°C) should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Rash or skin eruption, excessive vaginal bleeding, or vaginal discharge should be assessed and reported.
An accurate intake and output record should be maintained.
The patient should consume at least 3 liters of fluid intake daily.
An indwelling urinary catheter is placed to reduce bladder size and effects of radiation on the bladder.
Catheter patency should be monitored, and the radiologist should be called if the implant becomes dislodged.

Post-Radiation Care

After the applicator is removed, the indwelling catheter is usually removed, and a douche and enema are commonly prescribed.
Precautions are no longer needed after removal of the applicator.
The patient should ambulate and gradually resume activities.
Sexual intercourse is usually delayed for 7-10 days.
Patients should notify the healthcare provider of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, frequent or painful urination, or a temperature higher than 100°F (37.7°C).