Radiation Therapy Nursing Flashcards

A patient receiving radiation therapy to the head and neck region develops painful ulcerations of the oral mucosa. Which condition does this describe?

Answer: Mucositis

Mucositis is inflammation and ulceration of the mucosal lining caused by radiation damage to rapidly dividing epithelial cells in the mouth and throat.

Which CBC finding is most important to monitor in a patient receiving pelvic radiation therapy?

Answer: Decreased hemoglobin, white blood cells, and platelets

Pelvic radiation affects the bone marrow in pelvic bones, leading to myelosuppression with decreases in red cells, white cells, and platelets.

A patient who completed chest radiation 6 weeks ago presents with fever, dry cough, and dyspnea. Which radiation complication is most likely?

Answer: Radiation pneumonitis

Radiation pneumonitis typically occurs 1–3 months after chest irradiation and presents with fever, dry cough, and dyspnea due to inflammatory lung damage.

A nurse is caring for a patient with a low-dose rate (LDR) cervical brachytherapy implant. Which safety precaution is most important?

Answer: Limit time near the patient and keep distance; pregnant visitors and children should not visit

Radiation safety for LDR brachytherapy requires limiting time and maximizing distance from the radioactive source; pregnant women and children are especially restricted to protect them from radiation exposure.

What is the most appropriate dietary recommendation for a patient experiencing radiation-induced diarrhea from pelvic irradiation?

Answer: Low-residue, low-fat diet avoiding raw fruits, vegetables, and dairy

A low-residue, low-fat diet reduces bowel stimulation and stool frequency, easing radiation-induced diarrhea by decreasing the bulk that passes through the irritated bowel.

Why are immobilization devices (e.g., thermoplastic masks, body molds) used during radiation therapy?

Answer: To ensure reproducible patient positioning for each treatment fraction

Immobilization devices hold the patient in the exact same position for every treatment fraction, ensuring the radiation beam targets the tumor consistently throughout the course of therapy.

A patient receiving whole-brain radiation therapy reports significant fatigue. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Answer: Teach energy conservation strategies and encourage light activity balanced with rest

Energy conservation techniques and a balance of activity and rest are the evidence-based first-line approach for managing radiation-induced fatigue without unnecessary deconditioning.