Radiation Follow-Up Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for radiation follow-up: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Healing & Nutrition
- •Your body needs extra protein and calories to heal
- •Small, frequent meals are often better tolerated than large ones
- •Stay hydrated; aim for pale yellow urine
Radiation Follow-Up recovery, day by day
After Treatment
- The treatment area may become red and irritated over time
- Fatigue is cumulative and may worsen over the course of treatment
- Stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals
- Have someone available to help at home
Infection Prevention
- Follow wound care instructions carefully
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Monitor temperature twice daily
- Report any fever above 100.4°F immediately
Managing Side Effects
- Moisturize irradiated skin with recommended lotion (NOT before treatment)
- Wear loose, soft clothing over the treated area
- Eat small, nutrient-dense meals
- Report any new or worsening symptoms to your oncology team immediately
Recovery & Monitoring
- Continue all supportive care as directed
- Gradual return to normal activities as energy allows
- Nutrition: focus on protein and calories for tissue repair
- Attend all scheduled follow-ups and labs
When to call your provider or 911
- •Fever above 101.5°F
- •Severe nausea/vomiting that prevents keeping down fluids for 24 hours
- •Wound infection: redness, drainage, opening
- •Severe shortness of breath
- •Sudden confusion or mental status changes
- •Severe pain not controlled by medication
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 7
Initial healing
Wound healing progressing
- Day 14
Follow-up evaluation
Post-procedure check and next steps
- Day 13
Recovery progressing
Gradual return to normal activities
- Day 21
Treatment cycle complete
Ready for next steps in treatment plan
For clinics
Stop photocopying aftercare sheets.
QR Rx sends this exact radiation follow-up recovery plan to every patient, branded to your practice, opened by a QR code. It checks in automatically, answers post-op questions, asks for a review at the right moment, and brings patients back for their next visit. The aftercare you already owe every patient, doing the work of keeping them.
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