Radiation therapy for lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE

To review current applications of radiation therapy in the treatment of persons with lung cancer, providing the scientific basis for nursing management of disease and treatment effects.

DATA SOURCES

Published articles, book chapters, clinical trial data, and professional practice experience from the radiation oncology, radiobiology, and nursing literature.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiation therapy has an important role in lung cancer treatment, regardless of histopathologic type. Intent of radiation treatment may be to cure, control, or palliate the disease and its symptoms. Combined therapy (especially chemotherapy and radiation therapy) produces enhanced side effects as well as enhanced tumoricidal effect.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Disease and treatment effects in the patient with lung cancer are particularly challenging to patients, family members, and care providers. Nurses have a major responsibility in patient/ family education and in providing the supportive care and self-help techniques needed for patients treated with radiation therapy.