University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
NURS 315 | Pharmacology
Academic year:

2024
Views:

156

Pages:

1
Author:

Cassie Escotto

ACTIVE LEARNING TEMPLATE: Basic Concept STUDENT NAME _____________________________________ Radiation Therapy 91 CONCEPT ______________________________________________________________________________ REVIEW MODULE CHAPTER ___________ Related Content Underlying Principles (E.G., DELEGATION, LEVELS OF PREVENTION, ADVANCE DIRECTIVES) Internal radiation (brachytherapy) External beam radiation (teletherapy) Common side effects: fatigue, skin changes, stomatitis, anorexia, bone marrow suppression Safety precautions for internal radiation Cytoprotectants (e.g., amifostine) ACTIVE LEARNING TEMPLATES Nursing Interventions WHO? WHEN? WHY? HOW? High-energy radiation targets rapidly dividing cancer cells External therapy is nonradioactive to others; internal therapy may expose others Dosage is divided and given over time to minimize harm to healthy tissue Requires careful planning and monitoring to prevent complications Protective measures are essential for patient, staff, and family Who? Nurses caring for oncology patients receiving radiation. Clients and caregivers educated on home precautions When? Throughout the radiation therapy cycle (pre, during, post). During administration of internal radiation (active precautions). During symptom management and side effect monitoring Why? To ensure safe delivery of therapy. Prevent radiation exposure to others (in internal radiation). Manage side effects. Promote comfort and prevent complications How? Place brachytherapy clients in private rooms with radiation signage. Limit visitors (30 min, 6 ft distance); no children, pregnant visitors. Wear dosimeter, lead apron, and use tongs for radioactive materials. For EBRT, avoid removing tattoos, use gentle hygiene, no lotions or heat on irradiated skin. Encourage balanced diet, energy conservation, and monitor CBC. Teach client to avoid sun exposure and report side effects