Nursing Roles in the Care of Patients with Choroidal Melanoma Treated with Ruthenium-106 Plaque Brachytherapy
Keywords:
choroidal melanoma, ruthenium-106 brachytherapy, ocular oncology nursing, radiation safetyAbstract
Introduction: Choroidal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. In Thailand, patients frequently present with advanced-stage tumors, complicating eye-sparing interventions and necessitating specialized nursing management.
Objectives: This article aims to analyze and synthesize current literature regarding the pathology, diagnosis, and treatment options for choroidal melanoma, and to develop comprehensive nursing guidelines for Ruthenium-106 (Ru -106) brachytherapy.
Key Issues: The main challenge is managing the care paradox, balancing strict radiation safety measures with the patient's need for psychological support. Nurses bridge this gap by integrating four phases of care: 1) proactive preparation; 2) radiation safety surveillance coupled with symptom management; 3) post-removal rehabilitation; and 4) empowerment for long-term self-care.
Conclusions: Clinical nurses play a vital role within the multidisciplinary team by providing holistic care, which is important for treatment success and maintaining the patient's quality of life.
Implications: Ophthalmic nurses should implement this comprehensive framework as a standard operating procedure to effectively deliver care and ensure safety for patients undergoing Ru - 106 brachytherapy.
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