general daily physical assesments

Question 1

What skin reaction occurs at 1600 cGy?

Answer 1

Faint erythema

Skin reactions are important to monitor during treatment.

Question 2

What skin reaction occurs at 2000-3000 cGy?

Answer 2

Faint erythema and epilation/alopecia

Epilation refers to hair loss.

Question 3

What skin reaction occurs at 3000-4000 cGy?

Answer 3

Erythema

Erythema is characterized by redness of the skin.

Question 4

What skin reaction occurs at 4000-6000 cGy?

Answer 4

Dry/moist desquamation

Desquamation refers to the shedding of the outer layer of skin.

Question 5

What should patients do to monitor their skin integrity?

Answer 5

Assess and monitor skin integrity and changes

Regular assessment can help in early detection of skin reactions.

Question 6

What type of lotion should patients use after showering?

Answer 6

A prescribed moisturizing lotion

Moisturizing lotions help maintain skin hydration.

Question 7

What should patients avoid applying to their skin?

Answer 7

Creams that contain alcohol

Alcohol can irritate the skin.

Question 8

What are patients advised to avoid exposing the treated area to?

Answer 8

• Heat
• Cold
• Wind
• Soaps
• Deodorant
• Razor shaving

These factors can exacerbate skin reactions.

Question 9

What is the recommended action if skin erythema occurs?

Answer 9

Use moisturizing lotion according to physician’s orders

This helps soothe the affected area.

Question 10

What should be done if skin breakdown occurs?

Answer 10

• Continue using moisturizing lotion if dry desquamation
• Use cortisone cream if skin is tender
• For moist desquamation, use Burrow’s compresses or silver sulfadiazine creams

Moisturizing and protecting the skin are crucial in management.

Question 11

What precautions should be taken to protect the scalp?

Answer 11

• Avoid shampooing
• Avoid using blow dryers, hairsprays, gels, or other hair products
• Apply moisturizing lotion to the scalp

These actions help minimize scalp irritation.

Question 12

What oral changes may occur between 2000-3000 cGy?

Answer 12

• Stomatitis
• Xerostomia
• Mucositis
• Taste alterations

These changes can significantly affect patient comfort and nutrition.

Question 13

What dietary instructions should be given for pharyngitis?

Answer 13

Modify the diet to soft, nonspicy, and nonacidic foods

This helps ease swallowing difficulties.

Question 14

What topical anesthetics can be used for esophagitis?

Answer 14

Lidocaine mixed with Mylanta or Maalox in a 1:3 ratio

This mixture can help alleviate pain during swallowing.

Question 15

What is a common side effect of treatment that occurs at 1000-2000 cGy?

Answer 15

Nausea and vomiting

Anticipating and managing these symptoms is essential for patient comfort.

Question 16

What type of diet should be recommended for patients experiencing diarrhea?

Answer 16

Low-residue diet

This diet helps reduce bowel movement frequency.

Question 17

What urinary symptoms should be monitored?

Answer 17

• Urinary retention
• Hematuria

Monitoring these symptoms is crucial for bladder health.

Question 18

What should be assessed regarding pain during treatment?

Answer 18

Location and intensity of pain

Regular assessment helps manage pain effectively.

Question 19

What parameters should be monitored weekly to assess overall health?

Answer 19

• Hemoglobin
• White blood cell count
• Platelet levels

A weekly CBC provides valuable information about the patient’s blood health.

Question 20

What should be done to manage fatigue in patients?

Answer 20

Instruct patients to pace activities and listen to their bodies

This helps prevent exhaustion.

Question 21

Fill in the blank: Patients should be instructed to ensure adequate _______.

Answer 21

nutritional intake

Proper nutrition is vital for recovery and overall health.

Question 22

What should be assessed regarding sleep patterns?

Answer 22

Normal sleep patterns and changes

Evaluating sleep can help identify underlying issues affecting health.