What should nurses monitor while caring for patients receiving internal radiotherapy?

Monitoring signs of infection and skin integrity is crucial for patients receiving internal radiotherapy. This treatment involves placing radioactive material inside or near the tumor, which can potentially cause localized tissue damage. As the radiation interacts with the surrounding tissues, it may lead to skin irritation or breakdown. This makes it essential for nurses to frequently assess the skin for any signs of redness, breakdown, or lesions, which could indicate a risk of infection.

Additionally, because the radioactive material can compromise local blood supply and cellular integrity, the assessment for signs of infection becomes critical. Infections can occur rapidly, especially when skin integrity is compromised, leading to significant complications.

While vital signs, hydration levels, and dietary preferences are indeed important aspects of patient care, they are not specifically linked to the unique concerns associated with internal radiotherapy. Therefore, focusing on skin integrity and infection helps to address the specific risks that arise with this form of treatment, ensuring that any problems are identified and managed early to promote patient safety and recovery.