Radiotherapy – Frequently Asked Questions Advice Sheet

Patient Experience

  • Reference Number: HEY-991/2018
  • Departments: Radiotherapy
  • Last Updated: 22 June 2018

Introduction

This advice sheet has been produced to give you information about the frequently asked questions received by the Radiotherapy Department.  It is not meant to replace discussion between you and your doctor.  If after reading it, you require further explanation please discuss this with the relevant person who has been caring for you.

Where is the Radiotherapy Department?

The Radiotherapy Department is based within the Queen’s Centre, Castle Hill Hospital, Cottingham, Hull. The Radiotherapy Department is located on level 1 of the Queen’s Centre, about half way down the main corridor on the right hand side.

How long will my appointment take?

A CT appointment usually takes around 30 – 60 minutes, depending upon the type of CT planning scan you are having.  A treatment appointment usually takes around 20 minutes.

Can I bring someone with me to the appointment?

You may bring someone with you for all your appointments if you are not using hospital transport.  However, your relative/friend/carer will not be allowed with you whilst you are having your scan or your treatment. If you require hospital transport you will have to attend alone unless there is a recognised condition why you require an escort.

Do I need any to do anything before my appointment?

If there is any particular preparation required for either your CT planning, scan or your radiotherapy treatment this will have been explained to you by your consultant at the same time that you were consented for radiotherapy treatment.  Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the Radiotherapy Patient Information line on (01482) 461206

Do I need to bring anything with me to my appointment?

It is always advisable to have a list of your current medication when attending any hospital appointment.  If you usually to take your medication through the day, it will be beneficial to bring it with you.

Can I eat and drink as normal?

Yes, unless you have been told not to do so, by either your consultant at the point of your consent to radiotherapy treatment or if instructed by a member of the radiotherapy team prior to your radiotherapy CT planning scan.

Can I take my medication as normal?

Yes, unless you have been told not to do so by either your consultant at the point of your consent to radiotherapy treatment or if instructed by a member of the radiotherapy team prior to your radiotherapy CT planning scan.

Will I need to have an injection?

Some scans require you to have an injection in order to improve the quality of the information on the scan. The radiotherapy team will explain this to you when you arrive for your appointment. For all injections you are required to have a blood test first, to check your kidney function before we proceed.

Will I be able to drive to and from my appointment?

Yes, unless you have been specifically instructed not to drive by your consultant.

Where can I park?

There are limited parking spaces directly in front of the Queen’s Centre.  However, car park 3 is just a short walk from the Queen’s centre.

How much will parking cost?

You can purchase a parking permit at a cost of £20 per month, (four weeks).

Car parking around the hospital sites is managed by OCS

  • £2.00 for up to 1 hour
  • £3.00 for 1 to 2 hours
  • £5.00 for over 2 hours (maximum stay 24 hours).

Can I get hospital transport?

Hospital transport is available for patients with a medical need attending for ‘active’ treatment.

Will I see my consultant at these appointments?

No, as you have already consented to your radiotherapy treatment and CT planning scan. However, if you become medically unwell during your visits to the department you will be reviewed by one of our medical team.

If I have a cold should I attend my appointment?

Yes, unless your GP has specifically instructed you not to attend, then please keep your appointments.

For further information please refer to the Queen’s Centre website

https://www.hey.nhs.uk/queens/

Or

Contact the Radiotherapy Patient Information Team on (01482) 461206, Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm, excluding Bank Holidays.  If your call isn’t answered, please leave a message and one of the team will get back to you as soon as they are able too.

Under the General Data Protection Regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018 we are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of any information we hold about you.  For further information visit Confidential Information about You

If you or your carer needs information about your health and well-being and about your care and treatment in a different format, such as large print, braille or audio, due to disability, impairment or sensory loss, please advise a member of staff and this can be arranged.

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