The nurse is caring for a patient receiving external radiation for lung cancer.
What nursing considerations will the nurse implement to reduce the risks related to this treatment?
Place the patient in a private, lead-lined room during hospitalization.
Ensure all staff caring for the patient wear a dosimeter badge to track the radiation exposure.
Monitor the patient's skin integrity and avoid exposing the irradiated area to extreme heat or cold.
Restrict all visitors and post radioactive precautions signs on the patient's door.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Placing the patient in a private, lead-lined room is unnecessary for external radiation therapy, which does not make the patient radioactive. This consideration is more applicable to internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy), where radioactive materials are placed inside the body.
Choice B rationale
While dosimeter badges are essential for monitoring radiation exposure, they are more relevant for healthcare workers who may be exposed to radiation, not for patients receiving external radiation therapy. The patient themselves are not a source of radiation exposure.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring the patient's skin integrity is crucial because external radiation can cause skin irritation and damage. Avoiding exposure to extreme heat or cold helps prevent additional skin trauma and promotes healing.
Choice D rationale
Restricting visitors and posting radioactive precautions signs are unnecessary for patients receiving external radiation therapy. These precautions are more applicable to internal radiation therapy, where the patient may emit radiation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering filgrastim (G-CSF) as ordered is crucial for patients with a low ANC. Filgrastim stimulates the production of neutrophils in the bone marrow, helping to reduce the risk of infections. For a patient with an ANC of 500/mm³, which indicates severe neutropenia, this intervention can significantly enhance the immune response and decrease susceptibility to infections.
Choice B rationale
Keeping the patient's central line insertion site clean and open to air is incorrect and could increase the risk of infection. Central line sites must be covered with a sterile dressing to prevent bacterial contamination and infection. Open exposure to air can introduce pathogens, especially in a patient with neutropenia.
Choice C rationale
Educating the patient and family about food safety and hygiene is essential for preventing infections in patients with neutropenia. Proper food handling and hygiene practices reduce the risk of bacterial and other infections. This education can help patients and their families implement measures to protect the patient from potential sources of infection.
Choice D rationale
Providing a high-protein, high-calorie diet is appropriate for supporting the patient's overall health and recovery. High-protein and high-calorie foods support the body's immune function, repair tissues, and maintain energy levels. Proper nutrition is vital for patients with leukemia to help them cope with the demands of their illness and treatment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Dosimeter badges are used for monitoring radiation exposure, not for handling chemotherapy. They are worn by healthcare workers working in areas with ionizing radiation to track their cumulative exposure and ensure it stays within safe limits.
Choice B rationale
Lead aprons are also used to protect against radiation exposure, not chemotherapy. They shield the body from ionizing radiation but do not provide protection from the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy agents.
Choice C rationale
Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and gowns, is essential for safely handling chemotherapy drugs to prevent skin contact and inhalation of hazardous chemicals. This reduces the risk of exposure to these toxic agents, protecting both the nurse and the patient.
Choice D rationale
Chemotherapy waste should be disposed of in designated chemotherapy waste containers, not in standard sharps containers. These specialized containers ensure that hazardous waste is handled according to safety regulations, reducing the risk of environmental contamination and exposure.
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