Treatments are delivered every day, Monday through Friday, usually between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. In general, 10-20 minutes are allotted for each treatment. More time may be required for more complex treatments. Once your radiation treatments are underway, you will come in at the same time everyday. The total amount of time you spend in the department is approximately 30 minutes. There may, of course, be unanticipated delays on occasion. The total radiation course may last from 1 week to 8 weeks.
Your physician will routinely see you at least once a week during your treatment course. This will usually fall on the same day each week. These physician visits are called "on treatment visits." Please expect to be in the department slightly longer than usual on the day you see your physician.
A nurse is in the department at all times. Please feel free to ask him or her for assistance anytime you wish. If it is determined that you need to see a physician, we will make sure that one is made available to you.
You may encounter side effects during your course of treatment. Please bring these to the attention of your nurse or doctor. Side effects that are unique to radiation require specific remedies. It is important that you use only agents or medications that have been prescribed for you by your doctor or nurse. For example, special creams and dressings have been developed specifically for the type of skin reaction you may experience.
If you are being treated to your head and neck region or another part of your gastrointestinal tract, a nutritionist may become involved in your care. The nutritionist is always available for anyone who may have a specific question. Similarly, if you wish to receive information on various support or transportation services, your nurse can provide you with this information.
