Final answer:
The nurse should observe the feces for presence of blood to address potential gastrointestinal side effects of radiation therapy to the lower abdomen. This monitoring is necessary to detect and manage gastrointestinal bleeding that might occur due to radiation-induced damage. so, option 2 is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
A client with an invasive carcinoma of the bladder is receiving radiation therapy to the lower abdomen, which may lead to a variety of side effects. Since gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea and nausea are common, interventions should aim at monitoring and alleviating such symptoms. One effective intervention would be to observe the feces for the presence of blood, as there may be damage to the gastrointestinal tract that could cause bleeding. If bleeding is detected, further assessments and interventions are necessary to manage this complication.
While other options such as monitoring blood pressure for hypertension, administering enemas, or providing a high-bulk diet might be important for the overall care of the patient, they are not specifically targeted at addressing the common side effects of lower abdominal radiation.
Furthermore, medications are available to help manage symptoms such as intense pain, nausea, and mouth dryness associated with radiation therapy. Narcotics may be used for pain relief, while prescription medications like zofran and phenergan can help with nausea. Special mouthwashes can be used to alleviate the side effects of a dry mouth and prevent cavities.