Which side effect of radiation therapy will the nurse anticipate in a patient who has laryngeal cancer?
Blistering burns
Diarrhea
Dry mouth
Nausea
The Correct Answer is C
A. Blistering burns are not a typical side effect of radiation therapy for laryngeal cancer. Radiation burns can occur on the skin, but they are more likely to cause irritation and redness rather than blistering burns, especially in the case of internal radiation targeting the larynx.
B. Diarrhea is a common side effect of radiation therapy when the abdominal or pelvic areas are treated, but it is not typically associated with radiation therapy to the larynx.
C. Dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common side effect of radiation therapy for laryngeal cancer, as the salivary glands may be affected by the radiation. This results in reduced saliva production, leading to a dry mouth.
D. Nausea is not a typical side effect of radiation therapy for laryngeal cancer specifically, though it may occur if other areas (such as the stomach) are being treated. Nausea is more commonly associated with chemotherapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Cheyne-Stokes breathing is characterized by periods of deep breathing followed by apnea and is often associated with conditions like heart failure or brain injury, not diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
B. Acetone odor to breath is a hallmark sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. The body breaks down fats for energy, producing ketones, which are released in the breath, giving it a fruity or acetone-like odor.
C. A blood glucose level below 40 mg/dL would indicate hypoglycemia, not DKA. In DKA, blood glucose levels are typically elevated (above 250 mg/dL).
D. Malignant hypertension refers to extremely high blood pressure with organ damage, and is not directly related to diabetic ketoacidosis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Have the client refrain from talking for 24 hr.: This is unnecessary; the client may talk once the effects of the local anesthetic wear off, typically within an hour or two after the procedure.
B. Withhold food and liquids until the client's gag reflex returns: This is the most important action to prevent aspiration. After a bronchoscopy, the throat is anesthetized, and eating or drinking before the gag reflex returns increases the risk of aspiration.
C. Irrigate the client's throat every 4 hr.: This is not a routine post-procedure intervention and could be uncomfortable for the client.
D. Suction the client's oropharynx frequently: Suctioning should only be performed if the client has difficulty clearing secretions. There is no routine need for frequent suctioning after a bronchoscopy unless clinically indicated.
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