What side effect of chemotherapy should the nurse prioritize discussing with teenagers undergoing treatment?

When discussing chemotherapy with teenagers undergoing treatment, prioritizing the discussion of alopecia is particularly important due to the significant psychological and emotional impact it can have on this age group. Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common side effect of many chemotherapy regimens, and for adolescents, who are often highly concerned about their appearance and peer acceptance, the onset of this side effect can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, anxiety, and depression.

Addressing alopecia allows the nurse to provide support and guidance on coping strategies, such as exploring options for wigs, hats, or scarves, and discussing how to manage the accompanying emotional distress. Open conversations about this topic can empower teenagers to express their feelings and seek the necessary support, fostering resilience during their treatment journey.

While nausea and vomiting, mouth ulcers, and activity intolerance are also important side effects to discuss, they may not carry the same level of immediate and pervasive impact on the teenagers' self-image and social interactions as alopecia does. Therefore, focusing on alopecia underscores the nurse's role in addressing both physical and psychosocial aspects of care in this patient population.