Introduction of Radiation Oncology Toxicities clinic

A comprehensive review of the CNC roles in SCHHS Cancer Care commenced in 2020 following an external peer review and Nurse Practitioner led QI project. An identified area for improvement was follow up care of patients who had completed definitive radiotherapy, where it can expected that acute side effects will worsen.¹ The first 1-2 weeks post treatment is identified as the time that high risk patients would benefit most from a review and assessment by a specialist advance practice nurse. Self-management support for patients after their cancer treatment has been demonstrated to be of added value and has potential to improve the quality of routine follow-up care.² The Radiation Oncology CNC has the advanced knowledge and skills to manage treatment side effects and is well positioned to provide advice and support to patients. A QI project commenced to introduce an acute toxicities clinic for high risk patient post definitive radiotherapy.