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What chemotherapy will I receive today?
Your doctor determines what kind of chemotherapy you will receive during each visit. In addition to your diagnosis, your doctor considers how far along your cancer is in its development, the expected behavior of the cancer, and where the cancer originated. Your doctor also takes into account several other factors including your age, any other medical problems you may have, and any potential side effects from the treatment.
How is my chemotherapy scheduled?
Your schedule is determined by the specific course of treatment ordered by your physician. We usually try to schedule your appointments for the next four weeks.
Why am I so tired?
Most people who receive chemotherapy experience fatigue. Your daily activities should be planned according to how you feel. We suggest that you take rest periods throughout the day; as often as you feel necessary. Your nurse can suggest other tips to combat fatigue.
Will my chemotherapy make me sick?
A number of very effective medications are now available to help lessen or prevent nausea and vomiting. These medications may be given to you intravenously during your chemotherapy, or you may be given a prescription medication to take at home. Call your nurse or doctor if you experience nausea.
Can I color or perm my hair during treatment?
We do not recommend using a chemical process on your hair, but it is your decision.
Will I have the same nurse each time I visit the Infusion Center?
You may not have the same nurse at each visit. We have assembled a team of highly qualified oncology nurses who are all equally capable of caring for you. All of our nurses receive continuing education and clinical development to provide you with quality, safe, and up-to-date care.
What tests will you do?
Your doctor determines what kinds of tests are needed. If you are receiving chemotherapy, you may have blood work about one week before your first day of treatment. This blood work will include a CBC, chemistry profile, and any necessary cancer markers.
Why is my CBC tested after treatment?
Chemotherapy attacks fast-growing cells. Cancer cells, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets are all fast-growing cells. Because chemotherapy does not know the difference between them, these cells are all affected during treatment. Your white blood cell count, red blood cell count, and platelet count may all go down. Your doctor monitors these counts to determine the toxicity of treatment and to predict your risk for complications, as well as to plan future therapy.
Will I lose my hair because of my treatment?
Hair loss occurs with some, but not all, chemotherapy drugs. The amount of hair loss varies from a slight thinning to complete baldness, affecting the scalp, eyelashes and eyebrows, legs, armpits, and pubic area. The loss may be gradual or sudden. Sometimes, all body hair may be lost. Keep in mind that hair loss is always temporary. Many people find that their hair starts growing back while they are still receiving chemotherapy. If you wish to purchase a wig, your nurse can provide you with a list of local suppliers.
What is apheresis?
Apheresis is the medical term for donating particular blood components, including platelets, plasma, or white blood cells. Platelets, the most commonly donated blood component, are needed to treat patients who do not produce enough platelets themselves to protect against internal bleeding. Donated platelets benefit patients with leukemia, aplastic anemia, and especially those cancer patients who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Family members and friends who wish to help all cancer patients through apheresis donation should call the American Red Cross.
May I bring a family member or friend with me during my visit to the Infusion Center?
Friends and family members are always welcome to accompany you. However, we do ask that you not bring anyone who is ill. Many of our patients have difficulty fighting infections. We also prefer that children remain at home, for their safety and the safety of our patients. If they must come with you, please supervise them closely
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