The Role of Licensed Nursing Personnel in Radiation Oncology Part A: Results of a Descriptive Study

Abstract

Radiation oncology nursing is a subspecialty in evolution. The data should provide support for further exploration of how patient education and support influence patient outcomes in radiation oncology.

Factors Affecting Performance of Usual Activities During Radiation Therapy

“…Aggressive management of side effects of treatment, including fatigue, is a major role for nurses in radiation oncology departments and may help patients continue to perform activities that are important to them during radiation therapy, including participation in the workforce (Moore-Higgs et al, 2003). In addition, nurses need to intervene earlier with highrisk populations-those who have significant comorbidities, live alone, receive concurrent chemotherapy, and receive radiation to the chest or head and neck areas.…”

The Relationship of Sick Leave Benefits, Employment Patterns, and Individual Characteristics to Radiation Therapy-Related Fatigue

“…Increase in treatment-related side effects led to an increase in fatigue and a decreased likelihood of working during treatment. Aggressive side-effect management, a major role of nurses in radiation oncology (Moore-Higgs et al, 2003), has the potential for reducing radiation therapy-related fatigue and helping to keep patients in the workforce. Surprisingly, previous or concurrent chemotherapy was not associated directly with radiation therapy-related fatigue in this study.…”

Nursing-led management of side effects of radiation: evidence-based recommendations for practice

“…Nurses in radiation therapy departments apply evidence-based practice when providing patient and family education and managing side effects. 1,2 However, patients receiving radiation therapy are only in the department for a short period of time each day, so much of the management of side effects of treatment falls to inpatient, primary care, or home care nurses. The purpose of this review is to provide community nurses with general recommendations for evidence-based management of common acute side effects of radiation therapy.…”