Development of a Clinical pathway for Radiotherapy

Abstract

Radiotherapy is one of several treatments for oral cancer. To complete a one-month course of treatment, it is essential to manage radiation-induced complications effectively and help patients understand the treatment.
To this end, clinical pathways can be useful. We have developed a pathway for patients receiving radiotherapy, which consists of such components as tests, treatments, consultations, teaching, medications, and assessment of patient progress.
“An Assessment Sheet”and“A List For Drug Selection”were also formatted as companion documents for the pathway, to record patient progress and to help physicians make effective drug choices.
To evaluate the pathway, we implemented it for several patients. Two major improvements were observed : the patients came to understand more clearly the course of treatment in advance by using the pathway, and“the Assessment Sheet”facilitated follow-up by the multidisciplinary staff.