ONCC Radiation Therapy Nursing Flashcards

A patient receiving external beam radiation to the pelvis develops grade 2 radiation dermatitis. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Answer: Cleanse the area gently with mild soap and water and apply a moisture barrier

Gentle cleansing with mild soap and water followed by a moisture barrier is recommended for grade 2 radiation dermatitis to maintain skin integrity.

Which of the following is a late effect of radiation therapy to the chest that the oncology nurse should monitor for in follow-up?

Answer: Radiation pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis

Radiation pneumonitis (acute) and pulmonary fibrosis (late) are significant complications of chest radiation that require long-term monitoring.

A patient undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer is at highest risk for which nutritional complication?

Answer: Mucositis leading to dysphagia and malnutrition

Mucositis and xerostomia from head and neck radiation commonly cause severe dysphagia, placing patients at high risk for malnutrition.

Which instruction is most important for a patient receiving radiation therapy to prevent skin breakdown in the treatment field?

Answer: Avoid sun exposure, tight clothing, and harsh soaps in the treatment field

Protecting irradiated skin from UV exposure, friction, and irritants reduces the risk of radiation dermatitis and breakdown.

A patient receiving whole-brain radiation therapy reports severe headache and confusion two weeks into treatment. What is the priority nursing action?

Answer: Notify the radiation oncologist immediately as this may indicate increased intracranial pressure

Severe headache and confusion during whole-brain radiation may signal increased intracranial pressure, a potentially life-threatening complication requiring urgent evaluation.

Which of the following best describes the purpose of immobilization devices used in radiation therapy?

Answer: To ensure reproducible patient positioning for accurate daily dose delivery

Immobilization devices ensure the patient is positioned identically each session so the radiation dose is delivered accurately to the target volume.