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2 results

  • Radiographers relationship with head and neck cancer patients

  • Helen Egestad
  • Journal:
    Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice / Volume 12 / Issue 3 / September 2013
    Published online by Cambridge University Press:
    22 April 2013, pp. 245-254
  • Introduction

    Head and neck cancer patients face many demanding events, such as radiation therapy, which can cause anxiety and uncertainty. Studies report that relevant information decreases emotional distress and inadequate communication can lead to increased fear and anxiety. There is a lack of research that describes what radiographers do when they meet the patients. The aim is to explain what radiographers’ do that may lead to less anxiety and uncertainty for head and neck cancer patients.

    Method

    This study was conducted via qualitative interviews and took on a phenomenological, hermeneutic approach. Eleven head and neck cancer patients were interviewed 1-month post radiation therapy.

    Results

    Successful meetings are characterised by the radiographer smiling, being pleasant, referring to the patient by their name, informing the patient thoroughly, asking open questions and answering questions.

    Conclusion

    Head and neck cancer patients feel vulnerable and need the radiographer to create a safe atmosphere when they undergo treatment. Then radiographers reduce uncertainty, provide emotional support, reduce loneliness, provide information and create alliances.

  • Effective communication and information provision in radiotherapy—the role of radiation therapists

  • Georgia K.B. Halkett, Susan Merchant, Moyez Jiwa, Michala Short, Hayley Arnet, Sharon Richardson, Rachel Kearvell, Sharron Carson, Nigel Spry, Mandy Taylor, Linda Kristjanson
  • Journal:
    Journal of Radiotherapy in Practice / Volume 9 / Issue 1 / March 2010
    Published online by Cambridge University Press:
    25 February 2010, pp. 3-16

  • Introduction: Health professionals have a duty of care to radiotherapy patients in providing them with adequate information before treatment. There is a lack of research that describes the roles of radiation therapists and radiation oncology nurses in providing information to patients. This study aimed to: (1) explore how radiation therapists communicate with breast cancer patients during a radiotherapy planning appointment; (2) determine what information is provided during this appointment and (3) explore radiation therapists’ perspectives on their role in providing patient information and support.

    Methods: The following methodologies were used: self-report questionnaires; simulated radiotherapy planning sessions and joint interpretive forums. Statistical analysis was used to analyse the questionnaires and the simulated planning sessions and forums were analysed qualitatively.

    Results: A total of 110 radiation therapists participated in the survey. We simulated two radiotherapy planning appointments and held two forums. Four themes emerged: role definitions, reducing patient anxiety and distress, barriers and strategies for effective communication and confidence in patient communication.

    Conclusion: Radiation therapists play an important role in communicating with patients and providing information, particularly if patients exhibit anxiety and distress. Further research is required to determine whether patients’ information needs can be met with additional information provided by radiation therapists.