AOCNP Radiation Oncology Nursing 2

Question 1

Radiation pneumonitis typically presents within which timeframe after thoracic radiation?

Accepted Answer

1–6 months after completion of radiation

Answer

Radiation pneumonitis presents 1–6 months after thoracic irradiation with dyspnea, cough, and low-grade fever as inflammatory cytokines accumulate in irradiated lung.

Question 2

The principal long-term complication of radiation to the head and neck that impairs nutrition is:

Accepted Answer

Xerostomia and dysphagia from salivary gland and pharyngeal muscle damage

Answer

Radiation damages the parotid glands causing permanent dry mouth (xerostomia) and fibroses pharyngeal muscles causing dysphagia, both profoundly affecting nutrition.

Question 3

Brachytherapy involves:

Accepted Answer

Placement of radioactive sources directly into or adjacent to the tumor

Answer

Brachytherapy positions radioactive sources (seeds, needles, or catheters) inside or near the tumor, delivering high local doses while rapidly sparing surrounding tissues.

Question 4

Radiation-induced hypothyroidism is a common late effect of radiation to which anatomic region?

Accepted Answer

Neck, including fields used for head and neck cancers or lymphoma

Answer

The thyroid gland sits in the neck and receives significant dose during radiation for head and neck cancers, Hodgkin lymphoma, and medulloblastoma, leading to hypothyroidism in up to 50% of patients.

Question 5

Which nursing intervention is most important for a patient with high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy applicators in place?

Accepted Answer

Monitor applicator position, assess pain, and maintain bed rest per protocol

Answer

Applicator displacement changes the radiation dose distribution; pain and immobility must be managed while the patient remains in bed to prevent migration.

AOCNP - Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner Practice Test

AOCNP - Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner Practice Test

AOCNP Radiation Oncology Nursing 2