As radiation therapy becomes increasingly advanced, new knowledge and a deeper understanding of the technology’s possibilities and challenges are required. The recent training in Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) has given nurses the tools to meet these developments – combining theoretical foundations with practical training.

In Sweden, registered nurses and radiographers deliver radiation therapy to patients. Both professions receive further university-level education in radiation therapy.

Image guidance – the standard of the future
IGRT uses advanced imaging technology to closely monitor the position of the tumour and adapt treatment in real time. The goal is to ensure that the radiation dose is as precise as possible while sparing healthy tissue. This technology places high demands on staff competence, especially as new methods such as Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) and adaptive radiotherapy become part of everyday clinical practice.

“IGRT is changing the way we work. We need to make informed decisions quickly and interpret image data on a whole new level,” says one participant.

A national investment in skills development
The training was organised by NURSS (the National Training Initiative for Nurses and Radiographers in Radiotherapy Departments), targeting registered nurses and radiographers working in radiotherapy. The course ran during September and October and combined digital sessions with in-person learning, including a two-day on-site session at Karolinska University Hospital.

“The aim is to build confidence in clinical decision-making and provide a deeper understanding of how new technologies affect our work,” says the course leader.

Practical training and clinical application
The course structure combined web-based seminars, theoretical content, and practical exercises in a virtual environment using the VERTUAL training system. Participants explored anatomy, image interpretation, fixation techniques, and planning for advanced radiotherapy. Group discussions and case studies helped translate knowledge into realistic clinical scenarios.

“It was valuable to discuss everyday situations with colleagues from across the country. We learned from each other’s experiences,” says one participant.

New insights and continued development
The training clearly demonstrates how modern radiotherapy requires both technical and clinical expertise. Participants highlighted increased confidence in assessments, a broader holistic perspective, and stronger interprofessional collaboration. The course evaluation showed an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5, with some components – such as the SGRT and proton therapy lectures – scoring as high as 4.4. Participants felt the training provided valuable insights and strengthened their clinical competence.

The IGRT course marks the beginning of a series of similar initiatives from NURSS, aiming to strengthen national competence within radiotherapy across cancer care.

“Technology is advancing rapidly, but it is the competence of the staff that determines the quality of treatment,” concludes the course management team.

A step towards the future of cancer care
With the IGRT training, NURSS has taken another important step in meeting the evolving needs of modern cancer care. By combining technology, clinical practice, and shared experience, the initiative contributes to safer and more individualised radiation therapy – for the benefit of both staff and patients.

Markus Roskifte
Radiation Therapy Unit, Oncology Clinic
Karlstad, Sweden