Nursing in Radiation Therapy

Our team of nurses consists of registered nurses (RNs) specialized in oncology and radiation oncology. That is, they are uniquely trained in the care of cancer patients, especially those receiving radiation therapy. Each of our facilities is staffed with one or two nurses. Some of our nurses are Oncology Certified Nurses (OCNs). This means that they have successfully completed a national certification examination demonstrating specialized knowledge in oncology nursing.

Our nursing staff is an integral part of the radiation oncology team. Beginning with your consultation, a primary nurse who works closely with your radiation oncologist will be assigned to you. If your primary nurse is occasionally not available, another nurse will always be available to assist you.

Your nurse provides the following functions, which are very important to your successful treatment experience:

Patient Teaching:

Your primary nurse meets with you upon starting treatment, and periodically to help you understand each step of your treatment course. You will receive teaching about side effects you may experience, and self-care measures that will help minimize them. A nurse will always be available to answer your or your family's questions regarding your disease, treatment or other important information.

Symptom Management:

Our nurses are experienced in recognizing side effects due to radiation, and in helping minimize the discomfort they may cause. Side effects can be diminished through various management techniques that we have developed through the years. When symptoms develop, the nurse will teach you simple measures designed to lessen them and to keep you comfortable. Sometimes prescription medications are needed. Your nurse and physician work together to explain these and all other measures to you.

Coordination of Care:

Our nursing, technical and medical staff coordinate your care with your other physicians and work hard to make your treatment course run smoothly. They help avoid duplication of services. For example, if you are having blood drawn at your medical oncologist’s office, we obtain those results rather than have the procedure repeated. Nurses schedule the tests that are ordered by your radiation oncologist, and coordinate them with your daily treatment schedule such that any inconvenience to you is minimized.

Emotional Support:

Our nursing staff realizes that this is a difficult time for you. If you need someone to listen and to be there for you, you have found the right person. Furthermore, your nurse can direct you to various community resources and/or support groups that you may need or desire. They can also help with issues such as home health, hospice, or durable medical equipment.

This may also be a difficult time for your loved ones. We wish to include them in all aspects of your care to the extent that you would like. We are also available to support and assist them with their additional needs.

We hope this overview has illustrated the role of the radiation oncology nurse and our commitment to providing you with the best care during your radiation therapy.