Question

The nurse is reinforcing discharge instructions on a client with lung cancer who is to receive external radiation treatment to the chest area. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching? A. "I can wash the area gently with mild soap and water." B. "I should expose the area radiated to the sun three times a day." C. "I should wear soft clothing over the area." D. "I should dry the area with patting motions rather than rubbing it."

Short answer

A. "I can wash the area gently with mild soap and water." B. "I should expose the area radiated to the sun three times a day." C. "I should wear soft clothing over the area." D. "I should dry the area with patting motions rather than rubbing it." Answer: B. "I should expose the area radiated to the sun three times a day."

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate the first statement

The client says, "I can wash the area gently with mild soap and water." Washing the area gently with mild soap and water is the correct procedure to clean the skin where radiation therapy is given.

Evaluate the second statement

The client says, "I should expose the area radiated to the sun three times a day." This statement is incorrect and might be harmful. Patients receiving radiation therapy should not expose the treated area to direct sunlight, as this may cause skin irritation and worsen side effects.

Evaluate the third statement

The client says, "I should wear soft clothing over the area." Wearing soft and comfortable clothing over the treated area is recommended during radiation therapy. This can help minimize irritation and protect the sensitive skin in the area treated.

Evaluate the fourth statement

The client says, "I should dry the area with patting motions rather than rubbing it." Drying the area with patting motions, rather than rubbing, helps prevent irritation and damage to the skin that has been treated with radiation therapy.

Identify the statement indicating a need for further teaching

As we evaluated each statement, we found that the second statement, "I should expose the area radiated to the sun three times a day," is incorrect and indicates a need for further teaching. The correct answer is B.

Key concepts

Lung Cancer Treatment

Lung cancer treatment involves a multi-faceted approach where the medical team customizes therapy based on the type and stage of cancer. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy. Each treatment carries potential benefits and risks, and often a combination of these therapies is employed for better outcomes. One of the most common treatments is radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays or particles to destroy cancer cells. While this can be effective at targeting the cancer, it's important that patients understand the process and the care involved, such as the appropriate skin care regimen to mitigate side effects.

Radiation Therapy Side Effects

Radiation therapy, while critical in managing lung cancer, can lead to various side effects. The side effects often depend on the treatment dose and the part of the body being treated. Skin irritation is a common side effect, similar to a sunburn, and it's crucial to follow specific skin care guidelines to manage this.

Common Skin Care Tips Include:

• Gently washing with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals.
• Avoiding exposure to direct sunlight on the treated area to prevent further irritation.
• Wearing soft clothing to minimize skin friction and discomfort.
• Drying the skin with gentle patting motions to avoid damage.

It's imperative for healthcare providers to educate patients on how to care for their skin during and after radiation treatment to reduce these side effects.

Patient Education

Effective patient education is critical in ensuring successful treatment outcomes. Educating a patient on what to expect during and after radiation therapy, including the management of side effects, empowers them to participate actively in their care.

Key Educational Points Include:

• Understanding radiation therapy and its purpose.
• Recognizing and managing side effects promptly.
• Adhering to skin care protocols to preserve skin integrity.
• Realizing the importance of follow-up appointments for ongoing monitoring.

When patients are well-informed, they are more likely to follow care instructions accurately, report issues early, and navigate the challenges of their treatment with greater confidence. Thus, accurate and accessible patient education is a cornerstone of effective cancer care.