Radiation Oncology Nursing Flashcards

Which unit of measurement quantifies the absorbed radiation dose in modern oncology practice?

Answer: Gray (Gy)

The Gray (Gy) is the SI unit of absorbed radiation dose, equal to 1 joule of energy absorbed per kilogram of tissue.

Radiation-induced mucositis in the oral cavity is best managed with:

Answer: Frequent saline rinses, pain assessment, and nutritional support

Saline rinses maintain oral hygiene, regular pain assessment guides analgesic escalation, and nutritional support prevents the weight loss associated with mucositis.

Radiation recall is defined as:

Answer: Inflammatory reaction at a prior radiation site triggered by a systemic drug

Radiation recall is a cutaneous or mucosal inflammatory reaction at a previously irradiated field, triggered by a systemic agent (commonly anthracyclines or taxanes) administered after radiation.

Which skin care instruction is correct for patients undergoing external beam radiation therapy to the breast?

Answer: Avoid tight clothing, heat, and sun exposure; use gentle fragrance-free moisturizers

Protecting irradiated skin from friction, heat, and UV while maintaining moisture with gentle products reduces the severity of radiation dermatitis.

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) differs from conventional radiation by delivering:

Answer: Very high doses per fraction in a small number of treatments with precise targeting

SBRT delivers ablative doses (typically 5–20 Gy/fraction) in 1–5 fractions with submillimeter precision, maximizing tumor cell kill while sparing surrounding tissue.

A patient 12 months after pelvic radiation for cervical cancer reports progressive vaginal stenosis. The nurse practitioner should recommend:

Answer: Regular use of vaginal dilators with lubricant

Regular dilator use prevents progressive fibrosis and stenosis of irradiated vaginal tissue, preserving sexual function and allowing pelvic examinations.