Final answer:
The most appropriate option for caring for the skin of a resident with cancer is to avoid applying lotion to areas receiving radiation therapy. Substances such as lotion can interfere with the radiation treatment. Regular sun protection measures also need to be considered.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks, 'Which of the following is helpful when providing skin care for a resident with cancer?' The correct answer is (C) Avoid applying lotion to areas receiving radiation therapy. This is because the lotion can interfere with the radiation treatment, which is concentrated on the abnormal tissue. (A) Changing positions at least every four hours. This is important to prevent bedsores but is unrelated to cancer specifically. (B) Removing markings for radiation therapy each time you bathe the resident is not recommended because these markings are essential for accurate radiation treatment. Lastly, (D) Keeping the skin wet is not advisable for individuals undergoing radiation therapy because this can cause skin irritation.
It's also crucial not to forget about general measures of skin protection such as using sunscreen and avoiding excessive exposure to UV radiation, be it sunlight or from tanning beds, which is one of the leading causes of skin cancer.
Learn more about Cancer Skin Care