The nurse encourages patients to take frequent rest periods to conserve energy for their most important activities. Radiation causes irritation to the intestinal lining, which causes diarrhea. Women receiving pelvic radiation are encouraged to modify their diets to bland and low residue while on treatment and for one month to six weeks after treatments end. Prescriptions for antidiarrheals are often given to help maintain normal elimination. Careful weekly assessment will also aid in the early detection of cystitis and vaginitis and will lead to prompt treatment.
Radiation also causes changes to occur in the vagina.
External beam radiation and implants damage both the vaginal epithelium and the basal layer of the mucosa. It also diminishes the size and number of small blood vessels in the vagina. Vaginal stenosis and scarring can lead to long term sexual dysfunction and painful pelvic examinations. To help prevent these complications, the oncology nurse should obtain a sexual assessment as early as possible. If the patient has a partner, it is beneficial to involve them in the counseling.