16. Following external radiation, a client reports dry, irritated skin in the treatment area. Additional teaching by a nurse would be needed if the client says:
Select all that apply.
16. Following external radiation, a client reports dry, irritated skin in the treatment area. Additional teaching by a nurse would be needed if the client says:
Select all that apply.
. "Ice relieves the itching and redness."
. "I found a nonmedicated, fragrance-free lotion."
. "The sunlamp feels good and seems to help."
. "I have been washing the site with tap water."
. "My mother always said warm water and alcohol would toughen the skin."
. "I would like to scratch the site but I don't."
Test-Taking Tip
Note that the question asks for what is not OK; therefore, choose actions that would cause further skin irritation or damage such as options that imply cold (Answer 1), heat (Answer 3), and irritation (Answer 5).
Content Area: Adult Health, Integumentary; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Evaluation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Alterations in Body Systems
. . .
Answer 1 is correct because ice should not be used. It limits circulation and can cause thermal damage. Answer 2 is incorrect because this type of lotion is appropriate and will provide relief. Answer 3 is correct because a sunlamp may cause thermal burn to the area. Answer 4 is incorrect because gentle washing and drying will not cause further damage. Answer 5 is correct because alcohol would sting and further irritate the skin. Answer 6 is incorrect because scratching would cause further damage and lead to infection.