A client is scheduled to start external beam radiation therapy ...

[codyclark]

A client is scheduled to start external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for her endometrial cancer. Which teaching by the nurse is accurate? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. You will need to be hospitalized during this therapy.
  b. Your skin needs to be inspected daily for any breakdown.
  c. It is not wise to stay out in the sun for long periods of time.
  d. The perineal area may become damaged with the radiation.
  e. The technician applies new site markings before each treatment.

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a client who is undergoing brachytherapy about what to immediately report to her health care provider. Which signs and symptoms would be included in this teaching? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Constipation for 3 days
  b. Temperature of 99  F
  c. Abdominal pain
  d. Visible blood in the urine
  e. Heavy vaginal bleeding

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, C, D
EBRT is usually performed in ambulatory care and does not require hospitalization. The client needs to know to evaluate the skin, especially in the perineal area, for any breakdown, and avoid sunbathing. The technician does not apply new site markings, so the client needs to avoid washing off the markings that indicate the treatment site.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C, D, E
Health teaching for a client having brachytherapy should emphasize reporting abdominal pain, visible blood in the urine, and heavy vaginal bleeding. Severe diarrhea (not constipation), urethral burning, extreme fatigue, and a fever over 100  F should also be reported.