Tim didn't have anything like that. A "bolus" effect is when the radiation is intensified due to there being cream or lotion on the area (I'm sure your doc told her not to put anything on the area for a few hours prior to treatment, right?). Could that be the "bolus" the doctor meant?

You should definitely wash between applications and wash your hands before applying. Not doing so can result in infection. Tim uses cetaphil. It's very gentle. And use your hands only. Don't use a washcloth or scrub or anything.

Is she on a fentanyl patch for the pain? Tim was all the way up to 150 mcg and is now tapering down, currently at 100 mcg.