Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

What is a critical consideration for skin care in a resident undergoing radiation therapy?

1. Use lotion liberally on all skin

2. Avoid backrubs entirely

3. Apply lotion to all areas

4. Avoid lotion on areas receiving radiation therapy

The correct answer is: Apply lotion to all areas

The correct answer focuses on the importance of skin care in residents undergoing radiation therapy. When a resident is receiving radiation, their skin becomes sensitive and vulnerable to irritation. Applying lotion is essential, as it helps to keep the skin moisturized and can alleviate dryness and discomfort. However, when addressing all areas, it is crucial to apply lotion carefully to the areas that are not being directly treated with radiation. Considering the context of radiation therapy, areas receiving treatment may have specific restrictions, such as avoiding certain products or applying lotion to those specific sites, which can be detrimental rather than helpful. Therefore, while the practice involves moisturizing, it's important to tailor the application to avoid the areas affected by radiation directly. Overall, applying lotion to all areas, with a careful consideration for radiation-treated areas, supports overall skin integrity and comfort, which is paramount during radiation therapy.