11. A woman who has received radiation therapy says that she feels like she is voiding through her vagina. This client may be experiencing:
11. A woman who has received radiation therapy says that she feels like she is voiding through her vagina. This client may be experiencing:
. Extreme stress due to a diagnosis of cancer.
. Altered perineal sensations as a side effect of radiation therapy.
. The development of a vesicovaginal fistula.
. Rupture of the bladder.
Test-Taking Tip
Look for an option that best explains the description of "voiding through." A fistula is an abnormal opening.
Content Area: Adult Health, Oncological; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Analysis; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Alterations in Body Systems
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Answer 1 is incorrect because stress would not be associated with this sensation. Answer 2 is incorrect because, while sensations might be affected, her reported symptoms could be a real problem that should be investigated. Answer 3 is correct because radiation damages tissue, and the healing process may not effectively keep the vagina and bladder separate. Bladder contraction could send urine through a fistula, to come out the vagina. Answer 4 is incorrect because rupture of the bladder would cause signs associated with sepsis.