New to Radiation Oncology Nursing

[kritee10]

Hello,

I'm a strong canidate for a radiation oncology nurse position. Its in an outpatient setting and the Dr. wants the nurse to do external beam therapy. I have oncology experience but not in radiation. I really don't know what to expect. I'm so excited to start something new and anxious at the same time. I am taking a radation oncology course on Wednesday to help me understand my role, but i'm getting a little nervous and wanted to know if any experience/new radiation oncology nurses can tell me what to expect.

thanks

[DLS_PMHNP, MSN, RN, NP]

Hi Kritee,

I am a new RN grad, I worked in Rad Onc as a nurse extern and now work prn as an RN.

Much of your work in Rad Onc is 'focused' assessment. Assessing for s/e from radiation tx. For example, if a pt is having radiation to the larynx, you would assess for nutrition, pharyngitis, stomatitis, etc. A lot of psychosocial assessment as well.. pts are very anxious about having radiation going through their body. Who wouldn't be?

We assess our radiation pts q week (or sooner if they need it) and they also see their physician q week. We do mostly external beam tx, with some brachytherapy and stereotactic radiation. I love it, I learn something new every day. As with oncology in general (which you already know), some very sad cases. I hate doing Peds cases, those are the hardest (emotionally) for me.

Best to you in your new position!

-Diane