an oncology nurse is caring for a patient who has developed erythema following radiation therapy what should the nurse instruct the patient to do

ATI RN

Oncology Questions

1. An oncology nurse is caring for a patient who has developed erythema following radiation therapy. What should the nurse instruct the patient to do?

A. Periodically apply ice to the area.
B. Keep the area cleanly shaven.
C. Apply petroleum jelly to the affected area.
D. Avoid using soap on the treatment area.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. When a patient develops erythema following radiation therapy, it is essential to avoid further irritation and potential infection. Using soap on the affected area can exacerbate the condition. Applying ice (choice A) may provide temporary relief for discomfort but does not address the underlying issue. Keeping the area cleanly shaven (choice B) is not necessary and may increase the risk of skin irritation. Applying petroleum jelly (choice C) can trap heat and worsen the erythema, so it is not recommended.

2. The clinic nurse is caring for a patient whose grandmother and sister have both had breast cancer. She requested a screening test to determine her risk of developing breast cancer and it has come back positive. The patient asks you what she can do to help prevent breast cancer from occurring. What would be your best response?

A. Research has shown that eating a healthy diet can provide all the protection you need against breast cancer.
B. Research has shown that taking the drug tamoxifen can reduce your chance of breast cancer.
C. Research has shown that exercising at least 30 minutes every day can reduce your chance of breast cancer.
D. Research has shown that there is little you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer if you have a genetic predisposition.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in women who are at high risk, particularly those with a family history of the disease or a positive genetic test for BRCA mutations. Large-scale studies have demonstrated that tamoxifen can reduce the incidence of breast cancer by up to 50% in high-risk women. It works by blocking estrogen receptors in breast tissue, which helps prevent the development of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancers.

3. A patient with leukemia has developed stomatitis and is experiencing a nutritional deficit. An oral anesthetic has consequently been prescribed. What health education should the nurse provide to the patient?

A. Chew with care to avoid inadvertently biting the tongue.
B. Use the oral anesthetic 1 hour prior to meal time.
C. Brush teeth before and after eating.
D. Swallow slowly and deliberately.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: If oral anesthetics are used, the patient must be warned to chew with extreme care to avoid inadvertently biting the tongue or buccal mucosa.

4. All of the following are warning signs of cancer except:

A. Patient palpates a bump on the side of the breast
B. Bruises are found on the body that the client cannot explain
C. Patient often complains of impaired digestion
D. Patient has blood-tinged sputum

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Blood-tinged sputum is not a typical warning sign of cancer but rather a symptom that can indicate other serious conditions like respiratory issues or infections. Choices A, B, and C are common warning signs of cancer: palpable lumps or bumps, unexplained bruises, and persistent digestive issues are often associated with cancer and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional for further assessment and diagnosis.