The nurse is caring for a patient who will be receiving radiation therapy for cervical cancer. Patient education should include which skin care interventions?
Select all that apply.
1. wound and skin care
2. applying oil-based lotions to the skin
3. how to remove the markings from the skin
4. monitoring for evidence of fistula formation
5. applying heat to the abdomen with a heating pad
Correct Answer: 1, 4
Wound and skin care is important to prevent or minimize skin breakdown associated with radiation therapy. Fistula formation is a potential complication of radiation to the pelvic or abdominal cavities. Fistulas may develop between the vagina and bladder or rectum. Patients should apply non–oil-based lotions to the skin to relieve itching and maintain skin integrity. Markings are used to localize the radiation beam to the target area and are essential for future radiation treatments. Use of a heating pad to reduce pain is recommended in care for endometrial cancer.
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