Pharmacology: radiation therapy

What is the number one difference between sealed and unsealed radiation?

Both are internal forms of radiotherapy; however, in sealed a solid object is placed in a body cavity. In unsealed, a radioactive substance is injected in liquid form into a vein.

What are the three principles the nurse uses to protect self when caring for a client with a sealed radioactive implant?

Time, distance, shielding

What is another name for external radiation therapy?

Beam or X-rays

What is the difference between external radiation treatment and internal radiation treatment?

In external the tumor is bombarded with xrays, and nothing is placed in the body; in internal there is some radioactive substance introduced into the body.

Of sealed internal, unsealed internal, and external radiation treatment, which is MOST dangerous for the nurse?

Sealed internal then unsealed internal (external radiation treatment is of no danger to the nurse unless the nurse is in the radiation treatment room during the treatment)

Should pregnant nurses care for a patient receiving sealed internal radiotherapy?

Never. (Lawsuit time!)

Should pregnant nurses provide care for a patient receiving unsealed internal radiotherapy?

Maybe, as long as they don't contact body secretions.

Describe the hygiene measures that you teach the patient receiving external radiotherapy?

Use plain water only, no soaps, pat dry, can use cornstarch for itch.

What are the major side effects of radiotherapy?

Pruritis, erythema, burning, sloughing of skin, anorexia, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, bone marrow depression

When the patient is receiving radioactive iodine, what precautions is/are most important?

Wear gloves while in possible contact with urine, special precautions taken to dispose of the urine.