The rationale for fractionation in radiotherapy

The use of radiotherapy as a cancer treatment is common, so an appreciation of the biologic
effects of radiation at a cellular level is essential to help nurses prepare their patients for the
challenging journey ahead using appropriate lay language. The four Rs of radiotherapy (repair,
redistribution, reoxygenation, and repopulation) are well established with regard to the principles
of radiotherapy; however, these concepts appear undeveloped in nursing literature. The current
article aims to succinctly explain how radiation impacts cancer and provides rationale as to why
radiation treatment is delivered during a number of sessions. Through receipt of this knowledge,
oncology nurses will be better equipped to communicate more efficiently and effectively with
their patients.