Mrs. Dwyer is a 48-year-old patient who is undergoing radiation therapy for uterine cancer. She complains of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and has experienced significant weight loss. The nurse recognizes that the likely cause of Mrs. Dwyer's symptoms is _____.

Question

Mrs. Dwyer is a 48-year-old patient who is undergoing radiation therapy for uterine cancer. She complains of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and has experienced significant weight loss. The nurse recognizes that the likely cause of Mrs. Dwyer's symptoms is _____.​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mrs. Dwyer's symptoms are consistent with radiation enteritis, which is inflammation of the intestines that can occur as a result of radiation therapy. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common symptoms, as is weight loss. Tissue rejection and inadequate gastric secretions are not likely causes of these symptoms, and without further information, it is unclear if steatorrhea or mental stress are contributing factors.

Mrs Dwyer Is a 48-Year-Old Patient Who Is Undergoing Radiation