Radiation-induced skin alterations.

A number of methods of managing radiation-induced skin reactions have been presented in this article. However, currently no standard of care exists among institutions and physicians in managing these skin reactions. In fact, little nursing research has been performed on managing radiation skin reactions. The Radiation Therapy Special Interest Group (RTSIG) of the Oncology Nursing Society is in the process of developing radiation-induced symptom management research. Until these data are available, it is recommended that nurses caring for patients with radiation-induced skin reactions focus on educating their patients on basic skin care methods (see Figure 5) and consult the patient's radiation oncology nurse regarding wound care management.