Also called radiotherapy, external radiation therapy delivers X-rays or gamma rays directly to the cancer site. Doses are given in increments, usually three to five times a week, until the total dose is reached. Radiation therapy may be used to completely destroy the cancer, control its progress, or help relieve symptoms, such as bone pain, bleeding, and headache. Radiation therapy may be augmented by chemotherapy, brachytherapy (radiation implant therapy), or surgery, as needed.
Verify the order and identify the patient with two patient identifiers. Explain the treatment to the patient and his family and review its goals, adverse effects, complications, and treatment issues. Provide education on interventions to minimize adverse effects as well as available local cancer services.
Make sure the radiation oncology department has obtained informed consent and that it's alerted to any abnormalities in recent laboratory and imaging results. Transport the patient to the radiation oncology department.
Initially, the patient undergoes treatment planning in which the target area is mapped out and tattooed or marked in ink to ensure accurate treatments. The doctor and radiation oncologist then determine the duration and frequency of treatments depending on the patient's body size, size of portal, extent and location of cancer, and treatment goals.
The patient is positioned on the treatment table beneath the machine with treatments lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes. After treatment is complete, the patient may return home or to his room.
Instruct the patient to report short- and long-term adverse effects. (See Complications of radiation therapy.)
Reassure the patient that he won't feel anything and won't be radioactive. (See Documenting external radiation therapy.)
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