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