OCN Radiation Therapy Nursing 2

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Mucositis

Answer

Radiation recall dermatitis

Answer

Xerostomia

Answer

Radiation pneumonitis

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Decreased hemoglobin, white blood cells, and platelets

Answer

Elevated white blood cell count

Answer

Thrombocytosis

Answer

Elevated eosinophil count

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Radiation pneumonitis

Answer

Radiation esophagitis

Answer

Radiation dermatitis

Answer

Pericarditis

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Instruct visitors to stand at the foot of the bed as far as possible

Answer

Double-glove and wear an N95 mask when entering the room

Answer

Ensure the patient wears lead shielding at all times

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

High-fiber diet with increased raw vegetables and whole grains

Answer

High-protein diet with increased red meat intake

Answer

Liquid-only diet for the duration of radiation treatment

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

To ensure reproducible patient positioning for each treatment fraction

Answer

To protect the patient's skin from radiation burns

Answer

To shield critical organs from the radiation beam

Answer

To reduce radiation scatter to surrounding staff

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Teach energy conservation strategies and encourage light activity balanced with rest

Answer

Encourage the patient to push through fatigue and maintain a normal activity schedule

Answer

Advise complete bed rest for the entire duration of radiation treatment

Answer

Refer immediately to the hematology team for erythropoietin therapy