A child with a brain tumor is undergoing radiation therapy. The ...

[krzymel]

A child with a brain tumor is undergoing radiation therapy. The nurse should include which information in the discharge instructions to the child's parents? Select all that apply.
 
  a. Apply over-the-counter creams to the area daily.
  b. Avoid excessive skin exposure to the sun.
  c. Use a washcloth when cleaning the area receiving radiation.
  d. Plan for adequate rest periods for the child.
  e. A darkening of the skin receiving radiation is expected.

Question 2

When an adolescent with a new diagnosis of Ewing's sarcoma asks the nurse about treatment, the nurse's response should be based on which information? Select all that apply.
 
  a. This type of tumor invades the bone.
  b. Management includes chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation.
  c. Ewing's sarcoma is usually not responsive to either chemotherapy or radiation.
  d. Affected bones such as ribs and proximal fibula may be removed to excise the tumor.

[joshraies]

Answer to Question 1

B, D, E
Children receiving cranial radiation are particularly affected by fatigue and an increased need for sleep during and shortly after completion of the course of radiation. Skin damage can include changes in pigmentation (darkening), redness, peeling, and increased sensitivity. Extra care must be taken to avoid excessive skin exposure to heat, sunlight, friction (such as rubbing with a towel or washcloth), and creams or moisturizers. Only topical creams and moisturizers prescribed by the radiation oncologist should be applied to the radiated skin.

Answer to Question 2

A, B, D
Ewing's sarcoma invades the bone and is found most often in the midshaft of long bones, especially the femur, vertebrae, ribs, and pelvic bones. Treatment for Ewing's sarcoma begins with chemotherapy to decrease tumor bulk, followed by surgical resection of the primary tumor. Local control of the tumor can be achieved with surgery or radiation. The affected bone may be removed if it will not affect the child's functioning. Ribs and the proximal fibula are considered expendable and may be removed to excise the tumor without affecting function. Ewing's sarcoma is responsive to both chemotherapy and radiation.

[krzymel]

Thank you

[joshraies]

Happy to help you