COCN Radiation Therapy Nursing

Question 1

What is the most common acute side effect of radiation therapy?

Accepted Answer

Skin reactions (radiation dermatitis) in the treatment field

Answer

Systemic hair loss

Answer

Hearing loss

Answer

Weight gain

Question 2

What nursing assessment is critical for patients receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck?

Accepted Answer

Oral mucosa assessment, swallowing ability, and nutritional status

Answer

Lower extremity circulation

Answer

Bowel elimination patterns

Answer

Urinary output measurement

Question 3

What is radiation recall and when does it occur?

Accepted Answer

An inflammatory reaction in a previously irradiated area triggered by certain chemotherapy drugs

Answer

Remembering the radiation treatment experience

Answer

A repeat of the original radiation treatment

Answer

A delayed allergic reaction to the radiation machine

Question 4

What is brachytherapy and how does it differ from external beam radiation?

Accepted Answer

Radiation delivered from a source placed inside or next to the tumor, versus from a machine outside the body

Answer

A type of chemotherapy given during radiation

Answer

Radiation delivered only to the brain

Answer

A form of immunotherapy combined with radiation

Question 5

What radiation safety precautions must nurses follow when caring for patients with sealed radioactive implants?

Accepted Answer

Minimize time near the patient, maximize distance, and use shielding

Answer

No special precautions are needed for sealed sources

Answer

Only wear a lead apron when feeding the patient

Answer

Limit visitors to medical staff only

Question 6

What is the purpose of simulation in radiation therapy planning?

Accepted Answer

To map the treatment area precisely and create a customized treatment plan

Answer

To simulate the patient's emotional response to treatment

Answer

To test whether the patient can tolerate lying still

Answer

To determine if radiation therapy is covered by insurance