Preparing for Radiation: Simulation and Treatment

The first day of radiation therapy can feel overwhelming. This is normal. The information below is to help you feel more prepared and lessen some of your anxiety.

Where to Go and How to Get There

Make sure you have the correct address and know which building your treatment will be in. In most centers, radiation oncology is on the lowest level of the building because of the radiation and shielding that is needed. Many times, it is located below ground.

Before your visit, ask about parking. Some facilities offer valet parking. Depending on your treatment center, parking may be free or discounted when you are coming for your daily treatments. Find out where and how to get the parking validated (stamped). If you are taking public transportation, map out your route before the first day. Find out where the closest bus or train stop is.

If you need help with your wheelchair, find out if there is someone there to help you or if you should plan to have someone come with you.

What should I bring with me?

You may want to pack a bag to bring with you for radiation each day. Some days you will be there longer than others. Some items you may want to bring with you are:

• Comfortable clothes – robe to go over your gown.
• Non-slip socks or easy slip-on shoes.
• Music to listen to. Most treatment rooms have a sound system.
• A book or magazine to read.
• Snacks or lunch.
• Notepad and pen to take notes when you see your care team.
• Essential oils, stress balls, or other items to help you relax.

For simulation and treatment, wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take off. You will need to put a gown on. You will not be allowed to wear jewelry in the area being imaged and treated, so it is best to leave jewelry at home.

Preparing for Simulation

Before you start treatment, you will have a simulation appointment. During this appointment, immobilization devices are used to help place you into the position you will be in every day for treatment. You will also have imaging done (CT, MRI, and/or PET). This appointment is used to map your treatment plan. You may get tattoos depending on the area of your body being treated, which help the therapists can get you back into the same position for treatment every day.

To prepare for your simulation, you will be given specific instructions. You may need to:

• Do a bowel preparation (empty your bowels of stool).
• Fill or empty your bladder.
• Follow specific diet instructions (no eating after a certain time).
• Take medications before the appointment.
• Practice breathing exercises.
• Practice holding still or bringing your arms above your head.

Also, you will likely need to take a pregnancy test when you come for the simulation. This is often done right before your simulation.

You will want to start thinking about what time of day works best for your daily treatment time. In some cases, you will make your whole treatment schedule the day of your simulation. Other times you will make your schedule over the phone after your simulation depending on your facility.

Preparing for Treatment

Your care team will give you treatment instructions before your first day of treatment. These may be some of the same instructions you had for simulation.

Your role in the treatment process is to:

• Arrive on time for all treatment sessions. If you are stuck in traffic, having a hard time getting to treatment, or need to cancel your appointment, you should call your care team and let them know. Make sure you get the phone number to call on your first day of treatment.
• Ask questions and tell your care team your concerns.
• Talk to your therapists and nurses about side effects that you are having.
• Eat a healthy diet or the diet your care team suggested.
• Talk with your social worker about transportation, support, and coping with cancer.
• Maintain the weight you are at now. Ask to talk with the dietitian if you are having trouble maintaining your weight.
• Care for any skin reactions that may occur. Your team will give you skin care instructions.

When you arrive in the department for your treatment, you can expect to either do a self-check-in at a kiosk or check in at a front desk with the receptionist. You may be asked to fill out paperwork or do a weekly insurance verification. You can expect to be in the department for an hour each day, some days will be longer and others will be shorter. If there is anything you are unsure of, please ask. Your care team is there to help answer all your questions.

Resources for More Information

Your Radiation Care Team

Radiation Therapy Treatment Process

Proton Radiation Therapy Treatment Process

Video: What to Expect During Radiation Therapy