Christina,

Welcome to the forum. You made a timely decision to take over the care of your father. A patient who is dehydrated can end up with serious problems. I am glad to hear that his temporary setback is being competently handled.

I am guessing that the doctors want to do a biopsy to determine if one of his two cancers has impacted the lymph nodes. If so, it will help them determine what the next step in his treatment will be.

Coming out of hospital, your father may be more suspceptible to infection if his white blood count is lower. He will probably need a lot of rest. It would be helpful for you to create a little space in the sitting room for him so all that he will need, like water, cream, reading materials, or even the tv remote is near him. Then at night, he may have to have a humidifier so he doesn't suffer from dry mouth or dry throat too much. If he has a lot of thick muscus, then having him use a waterpik on the lowest setting with some magic mouthwash and warm water and the tongue scraper attachment will go a long way in helping him have a fresh feeling in his mouth.

You really need to ensure that he gets his 48oz of water daily and at least 3000 calories. If there is access to a dietitian, then get some ideas or helpful into from this person. If you father feeds well, then he will feel a lot better going through the remaining sessions of radiation.

I don't know if I have answered your questions. If you have other questions, please do post them. There are lots of other people around here who can give you good information.