Radiation Therapy Nursing Flashcards

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

Answer: Skin reactions (radiation dermatitis) in the treatment field

Radiation dermatitis occurs in the treatment field and ranges from mild erythema to moist desquamation, depending on the dose, fractionation schedule, and treatment site location.

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

Answer: Oral mucosa assessment, swallowing ability, and nutritional status

Head and neck radiation commonly causes oral mucositis, xerostomia, dysphagia, and taste changes, making regular oral assessment, swallowing evaluation, and nutritional monitoring essential nursing responsibilities.

What is radiation recall and when does it occur?

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

Radiation recall is an acute inflammatory reaction in a previously irradiated tissue area that occurs when certain chemotherapy agents (like doxorubicin or gemcitabine) are administered, sometimes weeks to months after radiation.

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

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

Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly inside or adjacent to the tumor (intracavitary, interstitial, or surface), delivering high-dose radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

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

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

The three principles of radiation protection — time (minimize exposure time), distance (maximize distance from the source), and shielding (use lead barriers when available) — apply when caring for patients with sealed radioactive implants.

What is the purpose of simulation in radiation therapy planning?

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

Simulation uses CT scanning and positioning devices to precisely map the tumor and surrounding anatomy, create custom immobilization devices, and define treatment fields for accurate, reproducible radiation delivery.