In relation to radiation therapy, what should the nurse explain about the markings made on a patient's skin?

The markings made on a patient's skin in relation to radiation therapy serve as critical landmarks for therapy. These marks are essential for accurately targeting the area that requires treatment. Maintaining the integrity of these markings ensures that the radiation is delivered precisely to the intended sites, which is vital for maximizing treatment efficacy while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

It's important for patients to know that these markings should be protected to avoid any smudging or removal, which could interfere with treatment plans. By keeping the markings intact, healthcare providers can ensure that the radiation beams are correctly aligned with the designated area during each session, thus optimizing the overall treatment process.