Question

A nurse is providing teaching to a patient who has esophageal cancer and is to undergo radiation therapy. Which of the following statements to the nurse identify as an indication that the patient understands the teaching?

A. I will wash the ink markings off the radiation area after each treatment
B. I will use my hands rather than a washcloth to clean the radiation area
C. I will be able to be out in the sun one month after my radiation treatments are over
D. I will use a heating pad on my neck if it becomes sore during radiation therapy

Answer 1

The patient understands the teaching when they state using their hands instead of a washcloth to clean the radiation area after radiation therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine if the patient understands the teaching, we need to look for statements that demonstrate knowledge about the precautions and aftercare involved in radiation therapy for esophageal cancer. Option A is incorrect because washing off the ink markings is not recommended as it helps with accurate targeting. Option B is correct because using hands instead of a washcloth reduces the risk of skin irritation. Option C is incorrect because being out in the sun after radiation treatments can increase the risk of skin damage. Option D is incorrect because using a heating pad on the neck can worsen side effects during radiation therapy.

Therefore, the correct statement indicating understanding of the teaching is B. The patient acknowledges using hands rather than a washcloth to clean the radiation area.