A atuação da equipe de enfermagem ao cliente oncológico no processo de prevenção da radiodermatite: Relato de experiência

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is a worldwide known disease that affects man for more than five thousand years. In Brazil, it is the second cause of death, with a tendency to increase in future years. The estimate for the biennium 2023 - 2025 indicates that there will be 704,000 new cases of cancer in the country. In approximately 60% of cancer patients radiotherapy is indicated. However, radiotherapy is not selective only for tumor cells, which can cause adverse effects. Radiodermatitis, also known as cutaneous toxicity, is considered the most frequent adverse effect of radiotherapy. It is essential to carry out a nursing consultation with an oncology client undergoing radiotherapy. Objective: To present the experience with regard to nursing care for patients with radiodermatitis, based on nursing consultations, relating nursing care and conduct in radiotherapy with the evidence. Methodology: This is an experience report based on the experience of a nursing resident of the Multiprofessional Residency Program in Oncology Care at the Oncology Radiotherapy Outpatient Clinic, from March 2022 to June 2022. Details of the Experience: In this report based on experience, the emphasis will be on the role of nursing in the radiotherapy outpatient clinic, where nursing consultations were carried out at the start of treatment, follow-up and discharge of patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment. Discussion: The recommendations for preventing the occurrence of radiodermatitis, the assessment of skin toxicity and its classification, according to a standardized scale, and the application of care to relieve symptoms and progression of radiodermatitis should be carried out by nurses. With regard to radiodermatitis, the nurse has autonomy and support, according to COFEN, to prescribe dressings, and can also work together with the doctor in the evaluation, especially when there is a need to interrupt treatment due to severe radiodermatitis. Final Considerations: The nursing team plays a fundamental role in monitoring patients and their families, promoting care and evaluating patients undergoing radiotherapy. Radiodermatitis is a side effect that deserves attention from nurses and requires adequate care. When treated improperly, it favors poor local evolution, negatively impacting treatment.