Silent Heroes: Caregiving in the World of Radiation-Related Health Challenges

Without a doubt, the application of radioactive materials and ionizing radiation in therapeutic, interventional, and diagnostic procedures in medicine is important to millions of people every year. Applications of ionizing radiation required for treatment and diagnosis help many patients globally. Through a patient-centered culture, caregivers can deliver high-quality, reliable, and safe care. According to experts at UEW Healthcare, caregiving organizations can also foster a culture, which is committed to safety to improve healthcare and deliver experiences of patients.

Health Effects That UV Radiation Causes

Depletion of ozone layer decreases the natural protection of the atmosphere from harmful UV (ultraviolet) radiation. For instance, radiation to the scalp can result in hair loss. However, people who undergo radiation therapy to different parts of the body don’t lose hair on the head. Instead, they experience the following health effects:

• Fatigue – Fatigue describes feeling mental, emotional, and physical exhaustion even when you get enough sleep and rest. Most patients get fatigue, and the level of this fatigue might increase when they undergo the treatment severally.
• Skin changes – Some individuals who get radiation therapy may experience peeling, blistering, itching, and dryness on their skin. Changes in the skin from radiation therapy often go away a couple of weeks after their treatment ends. If damage to their skin becomes serious, your doctor can change your plan for treatment. Lotion can help, but ensure you check with the healthcare expert to recommend a good cream.

· Cancer Risks and Ionizing Radiation

Patients who receive a high dosage of radiation so they can treat lymphoma are likely to get another type of cancer. According to experts, ionizing radiation often comes from the studies of individuals who survived the atomic bomb at Nagasaki and Hiroshima that happened in 1945. These studies showed a slight yet significant risk of getting cancer in people who are exposed to the blast. This includes a group of about 25 thousand Hiroshima victims who got exposed to less than 55 mSv. Atomic blasts are not perfect models for exposure to healthcare radiation because bombs release radiation at once, while doses from medical imaging spread over time and are smaller. However, experts still believe that it might be very harmful to people.

The Role Caregiver Plays in Challenges Related to Radiation

Not just historically, caregivers play a vital role behind the scenes, ensuring patients with cancer get better treatment. Apart from that, they also ensure the following:

1.     Safety and Patient Care Remain a Priority

By working alongside clinicians, caregivers help to evaluate every kind of purchases patients make. They facilitate crucial connections between providers and vendors, creating a policy that reinforces their commitment to the safety of patients.

2.     Spending Funds Wisely

Importantly, caregivers play an important role in ensuring the financial health of facilities. They work together to deliver quality care with better value for patients and minimal waste. By continuously monitoring supplies and adhering to budgets, caregivers will also ensure the financial success of their patients.

The bottom line is that caregivers face a lot of challenges in helping patients with radiation-related effects. This is why nurses should be sensitive to the unmet requirements of caregivers and give the required support so they can continue offering quality patient care.