Chemotherapy Information
Chemotherapy Guidelines
This Patient's Guidelines to Chemotherapy was written to help patients, families and friends to understand chemotherapy and to empower, promote and improve your quality of life.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is given by intravenous route and sometimes using a pump. There is usually no pain associated with chemotherapy administration.
Chemotherapy administration is a complex task in a hazard-free, safe and therapeutic environment. Some patients may require immediate nursing attention. Occasionally, you may be asked to wait and be patient.
The oncology registered nurses are educated, licensed and certified clinical personnel in the oncology nursing specialty. They are familiar with the drugs to be administered, dose, route, sequence, toxicity and management of acute and chronic side effects. Patient safety is our priority.
The oncology nursing staff is experienced, skillful and competent to monitor venous access, and handle and dispose chemotherapeutic agents in accordance to Occupational Safety and Health Administration Guidelines (OSHA) and Oncology Nursing Society (ONS).
During the time you are being treated for cancer you may experience mixed emotions. Some days you may be happy and in control. Other times, you may feel depressed or angry. Unintentionally, this anger may be taken out on those closest to you such as family, friends, office and nursing staff or even your pet.
A symptom or complaint that lasts for more than a few days or any symptom of concern to you should be reported to your doctor or oncology nurse under the following circumstances: fever, chills, shaking, any unusual pain, mouth sores, pain at the injection site and unrelieved shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation.
Tips: alcohol may interfere with your chemotherapy treatment, drink enough water to maintain an adequate body fluid balance, eat a light meal before your chemotherapy session and remember to ask your nurse if you would like to bring a snack, food or other beverages.