Chemotherapy and Radiation

Question 1

Chemotherapy

Answer 1

Treatment of cancer with chemical agents.
Major role in cancer therapy.
Cures and increases survival time.
Some selectivity.
Normal cells most affected- skin, hair, intestinal tissues, spermatocytes, blood-forming cells.
Nurses must have knowledge about drug use, dosage ranges, side/adverse effects, and schedule specific precautions.
PPE must be used when administering oral and IV chemotherapy.

Question 2

Chemotherapy Treatment Complications

Answer 2

Dosage
Scheduling
Administration
Extravasation
Vesicants

Question 3

Complications of Chemotherapy

Answer 3

Infection Risk
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).
Mucositis
Alopecia
Changes in cognitive function.
Peripheral neuropathy.

Question 4

Extravasation

Answer 4

The most common nursing intervention is prevention.

Question 5

Radiation

Answer 5

Purpose- Destroy cancer cells with minimal damaging effects of surrounding normal cells.
Side effects vary according to site.
Local skin changes and hair loss (likely permanent).
Altered Sensations
Fatigue is related to increased energy demands.
Inflammatory responses that cause tissue fibrosis and scarring.

Question 6

Nursing Care of Patient’s Undergoing Radiation Therapy

Answer 6

Teach accurate objective facts to help patient cope.
DO NOT REMOVE MARKINGS.
Administer skin care.
Use lotions to protect the skin according to department policy.
Avoid direct skin exposure to sunlight.
Care for xerostomia (dry mouth).
Bone exposed to radiation is more vulnerable to fracture.