Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test

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Which of the following is a common side effect of breast radiotherapy (RT)?

  1. Skin reactions

  2. Nausea

  3. Hair loss

  4. Bone density loss

The correct answer is: Skin reactions

Skin reactions are a common side effect of breast radiotherapy due to the nature of the treatment itself. Radiation therapy targets cancer cells in the breast, but it also affects the surrounding healthy tissues, including the skin. As the skin is exposed to radiation, it can undergo various changes that lead to a range of reactions. These may present as redness, dryness, irritation, or even peeling, similar to sunburn. These reactions typically develop gradually and can be a significant concern for patients undergoing treatment, as they may impact the patient's comfort and quality of life. Other side effects like nausea, hair loss, and bone density loss are not typical for breast radiotherapy. Nausea is more commonly associated with abdominal or pelvic radiation. Hair loss can occur if the head is irradiated but is not associated with breast cancer treatment. Bone density loss may be a concern with certain cancer treatments, particularly hormonal therapies or prolonged corticosteroid use, but it is not a direct side effect of breast radiotherapy itself. Understanding these specific side effects helps oncology nurses better manage patient care and educate patients on what to expect during their treatment.