A chemotherapeutic agent known to cause alopecia is prescribed for a patient. To maintain the patient’s self-esteem, the nurse plans to
A. Suggest that the patient limit social contacts until regrowth of the hair occurs
B. Encourage the patient to purchase a wig or hat and wear it once hair loss begins
C. Have the patient wash the hair gently with a mild shampoo to minimize hair loss
D. Inform the patient that hair loss will not be permanent and that the hair will grow back
Correct Answer: B. Encourage the patient to purchase a wig or hat and wear it once hair loss begins
Option B: The patient is taught to anticipate hair loss and to be prepared with wigs, scarves, or hats.
Option A: Limiting social contacts is not appropriate at a time when the patient is likely to need a good social support system.
Option C: The damage occurs at the hair follicle and will occur regardless of gentle washing or use of a mild shampoo.
Option D: The information that the hair will grow back is not immediately helpful in maintaining the patient’s self-esteem.
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