An Observational Study Evaluating the Impact on Prostate Patient Outcomes and Experiences when Radiation Therapists Use Standard Tools and a Grading System to Assess and Document Treatment-Related Toxicities and Interventions

Abstract

Men undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer often experience acute urinary, bowel, sexual, and hormonal toxicities. Effective screening, management, and documentation of these toxicities is an integral part of clinician practice and ensures patients receive the care they require in a timely manner. Various screening tools, completed either by the patient or the clinician, are available, which allow clinicians to collect and respond to these toxicity events; however, there is a paucity of literature regarding the appropriate use of these tools during radiation therapy treatment. This study aims to affect and evaluate a change in radiation therapist practice by using a structured assessment tool for acute radiation induced toxicity assessment, documentation, and intervention.