The provision of radiotherapy services relies on a range of sophisticated, highly scientific treatment delivery systems and a variety of specialised health care professionals.17 The specialist multidisciplinary team is required to deliver prescribed, accurate doses of radiation and ensure safe and effective care for the person receiving radiotherapy.18
Appropriate emotional support, reassurance and provision of appropriately targeted information and education are important elements of nursing practice for this population.19
Quality assurance in radiation oncology encompasses many elements including:18
- the accuracy of the radiation beam
- machine performance checks
- radiation safety protocols
- standards of radiation treatment protocols
- evaluation of clinical outcome data
- evidence based supportive care.
Learning activities
Identify the following radiotherapy MDT members and outline their roles and responsibility in cancer care:
- Dosimetrist
- Physicist
- Radiation oncologist
- Radiation therapist
- Radiation oncology nurse.
Critically discuss the role of clinical practice guidelines to support evidence based nursing practice in radiation oncology.
Describe the role of safety protocols and/or procedures which ensure the wellbeing of the person affected by cancer as they receive external beam radiotherapy in the following areas of care:
- Immobilisation and positioning
- Monitoring of the individual during treatment.
Refer to your local policy and procedures and outline the actions required in the case of a medical emergency involving a person who has received an unsealed radioactive source.