Pelvic radiation disease: role of cancer nurses in patient assessment and self-management
To increase your knowledge of the late effects of pelvic radiotherapy on physical function and quality of life
To read about the symptoms of pelvic radiation disease and their assessment and management
To contribute towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD (UK readers)
To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)
Pelvic radiation disease (PRD) is a collection of signs and symptoms that can occur after a person has received radiotherapy for gynaecological, colon, rectal, prostate or another type of cancer occurring in the pelvic region. As more people live with and beyond cancer, it is increasingly important to consider patients’ risk factors for late effects of treatments such as pelvic radiotherapy, assess patients for potential symptoms of PRD and provide them with appropriate interventions, with a particular focus on self-management. This article describes common complications of pelvic radiotherapy and discusses the simpler aspects of PRD assessment and management while providing guidance on referring patients with severe or complex symptoms for specialist support.
