1. The client/caregiver can define radiation.
    1. It is the use of ionizing radiation to produce biological effects to tissues and cause DNA damage. This damage then creates the loss of cellular reproduction.
    2. Radiation can be given externally or internally.
      1. External radiation is administered by a machine directing rays to the part of the body involved.
      2. Internal radiation is given by placing radioactive material within the tissues or body cavity.
    3. High-dose radiation can cause sterility. Issues of fertility and sexual function should be addressed.
  2. The client/caregiver can list general health measures while receiving radiation.
    1. Provide good skin care.
      1. Inspect radiation treatment sites daily.
      2. Bathe carefully. Avoid using soap and friction over the treated area. Do not wash off markings on the skin.
      3. Avoid using ointments or creams on the treated area unless prescribed by a physician.
      4. Avoid extreme temperatures of hot or cold, including
        • Heating pads
        • Ultraviolet light
        • Whirlpool bath
        • Sauna or steam baths
        • Direct sunlight
      5. Protect skin from sunlight or wind exposure.
      6. Wear soft non-restrictive clothing.
      7. If receiving treatment to the head
        • Avoid use of harsh shampoo.
        • Avoid hair coloring or permanents.
        • Avoid use of curling irons and hair dryers.
    2. Promote good nutrition.
      1. Eat a well-balanced diet with a variety of foods. Use frequent smaller meals.
      2. Weigh daily for early detection of weight loss.
      3. Avoid eating several hours before and after treatment to prevent nausea.
      4. Encourage fluid intake of up to 3000 ml/day.
    3. Obtain adequate rest to prevent fatigue.
    4. Prevent bleeding.
      1. Report early signs of bruises, bleeding gums, and so forth.
      2. Follow safety measures to prevent injuries.
      3. Avoid aspirin.
    5. Prevent infections.
      1. Avoid crowds or persons with respiratory infection.
      2. Report any early signs of infection.
    6. Notify physician of side effects from radiation.
    7. Keep follow-up appointments with physicians.
  3. The client/caregiver can list possible complications or side effects.
    1. Side effects are seen early in the skin, mucous membranes, and hair follicles. Later side effects are noted in the vascular system and muscles.
    2. General effects are fatigue and loss of appetite.
    3. Alopecia (loss of hair) can occur.
    4. Skin has local redness and inflammation. There can be dry or moist shedding of the epidermis layer of skin.
    5. Changes can occur in the mucous membranes such as inflammation, dryness, or change and/or loss of taste.
    6. Nausea or vomiting is possible.
    7. Diarrhea can occur.
    8. Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder) can occur.
    9. Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs) is possible.
    10. There could be depression in the bone marrow function, resulting in anemia.

Resources

American Cancer Society800-227-2345www.cancer.org/
National Cancer Institutewww.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Therapy/radiation
Cancer Information Service800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237)https://www.cancer.gov/
LiveHelp, National Cancer Institute’s live online assistancehttps://cissecure.nci.nih.gov/livehelp/welcome.asp
Support groups
Counseling

References

Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.Canobbio, M. M. (2006). Mosby’s handbook of patient teaching. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.Lutz, C., & Przytulski, K. (2001). Nutrition and diet therapy. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company.Perry, A., & Potter, P. (2006). Clinical nursing skills & technique. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott

Credits

Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.www.jbpub.com

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