Radiation

Radiation

Nursing Intervention To Radiation Effect

General

Fatigue: Inform the patient of the likeliness of fatigue during and after radiotherapy. Assess and promote self care strategies. Check for physical, biochemical and physcological causes fo fatigue. Encourage patient to maintain a daily record of fatigue levels and relationship to activities.

Scalp

Alopecia: Reassure patient that hair will usually grow back within 2-3months, although it may be a different texture and colour. Organise provision of a wig.

Brain

Cerebal Oedema: Administer prescribed steroids. Observe and report alterations in mental status, ensure patient safety.

Mouth

Xerostomia (dry mouth): Frequent mouth rinses with normal saline and sodium bicarbonate, frequent sips of water, use of artificial saliva, moist soft diet

Taste Change: due to xerostomia and damaged taste buds, assist patient to experiment with other foods

Neck and Throat

Pharyngitis, laryngitis: discourage smoking, encourage rest of voice, observe respiratory status and colour

HeartBurn: admister antacids prior to food
Abdomen and pelvis

Inflammation of gastrointestal epithelium: Nausea and vomiting, encourage small meal 3 hour before treatment, regular anti emetics, distraction/relaxation techniques

Diarrhoea: maximise privacy, low residue, bland diet, low fat, observe for dehydration

Cystitis: due to inflammation of urinary tract, encourage high fluid intake (3L daily), encourage and assist with personal hygiene

Altered sexual function: psychological support and counselling, include partner if patient wishes

MEN: Erectile Dysfunction (usually temporary), psychological support, may need referral to ED clinic, offer sperm banking if appropriate

Monitor hormone levels, testosterone replacement therapy

WOMEN: Sterility (may be temporary or permanent), advised continued contraception during and for several months after treatment, advise use of water based vaginal lubricant, use of...

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