. The nurse is preparing a child for possible alopecia from chemotherapy. What information should the nurse include?

The nurse is preparing a child for possible alopecia from chemotherapy. What information should the nurse include?

a.
Wearing hats or scarves is preferable to a wig.
b.
Expose head to sunlight to stimulate hair regrowth.
c.
Hair may have a slightly different color or texture when it regrows.
d.
Regrowth of hair usually begins 12 months after chemotherapy ends.

ANS: C

Alopecia is a side effect of certain chemotherapeutic agents and cranial irradiation. When the hair regrows, it may be of a different color or texture. Children should choose the head covering they prefer. A wig should be selected similar to the child’s own hairstyle and color before the hair loss. The head should be protected from sunlight to avoid sunburn. The hair usually grows back within 3 to 6 months after the cessation of treatment.