RADIODERMITE MANAGEMENT THROUGH EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Being considered by many as inevitable, commonly radiodermatitis is treated empirically or untreated. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify and analyze the available evidence for radiodermatitis prevention and treatment in order to improve the standardization of nursing care and assistance to the population. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review, with qualitative analysis, searching the BVS, LILACS and SCIELO databases and including articles published in the last five years using the following descriptors: radiodermatitis, oncologic nursing, prevention and treatment in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Based on the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 36 articles for discussion were listed. Results: We found a great variability of agents and skin care, however it was possible to identify the most described care and with greater degrees of scientific evidence, thus allowing us to define indications and contraindications of care. Interventions that proved beneficial: Patient education may decrease the incidence of radiodermatitis and its severity. Hygiene and skin hydration measures in acute radiodermatitis. Indication of the use of topical corticosteroids as a treatment for wet peeling. Calendula cream proved to be safe for radiodermatitis management, but with little scientific evidence. For treatment, studies point to the use of silicone dressings and/or polyurethane foams as a contributing factor to improve pain and friction in affected patients. Interventions that have no benefit include the use of essential fatty acid, dexpanthenol or sucralfate cream, aloe vera or trolamine cream, preventive corticosteroids: EGF cream, Hyaluronic acid, Hydrocolloid and hydrogel dressing (may worsen the degree of radiodermatitis). Conclusion: The standardization of care and guidance offered to patients undergoing radiotherapy can contribute to the prevention and effective treatment of this complication, improving the quality and safety of the service provided. It is noteworthy that there are still many experimental studies in the literature, strengthening the need for further research, as well as implementation of evidence-based protocols in health services and monitoring its effectiveness.