A 23-year-old is being treated with radiation therapy after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease Stage 1A. The nursing care plan for this patient should include which of the following?

Explanation

•In order to minimize skin damage from radiation therapy, it is best to avoid the application of creams and powders to the area.

•Many of creams and powders contain heavy metals which can further irritate skin that is sensitized by radiation therapy. These also reduce the effectiveness of the therapy by blocking radiation.

•It is alright to wash with water only, but the radiation markings must not be washed off.

•It is not neccessary to apply heat to the area or cover it. Leave the site dry and open to air.

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