Here are the ‘who, what, when, where, and how’s of a typical chemotherapy session.
Who – Before you begin treatment, you will meet with both the health care provider in charge of administering the chemotherapy and your physician or oncologist. Your physician will review your pre-chemotherapy blood work to assess your overall health before treatment begins.
What – Every person is different, so the dosage, types of medications, and combination of chemotherapy drugs vary from person to person, depending on both the type of breast cancer and a person’s medical history.
When – Most often, chemotherapy for breast cancer is given in three-week cycles (every three weeks) for between three to six months, providing you with a recovery period between treatments. Each session will take a few hours.
Where – Chemotherapy sessions are generally given on an outpatient basis, in a hospital or clinic, or in a physician’s office. In a hospital setting, you may be in a private area, or in an open area set up to accommodate several people.
How – Chemotherapy is administered via the insertion of an intravenous (IV) needle/catheter into your hand or arm, or through a chemotherapy port. Implanted by a surgeon, a port is a slim, soft catheter tube that goes through your vein all the way to your heart. Located in either your arm or your chest, the port protects your vein during treatment, and saves the nurse from having to search for a vein prior to each session.
What to expect during a chemotherapy session…
Plan to wear something comfortable throughout your chemotherapy treatments…preferably loose clothing that enables you to easily roll up your sleeves. Some patients feel a bit woozy from the sedation or other symptoms, so high-heeled shoes are not recommended…a pair of stable, athletic shoes or slip-resistant socks will work best.
Prior to treatment
- You will be weighed, and your blood pressure and temperature will be taken.
- You will have blood drawn to determine your blood cell counts.
- Your session will begin once your lab results have been reviewed.
- You may receive anti-nausea and/or anti-anxiety medications intravenously prior to chemotherapy.
During treatment Since each session will take a few hours, patients are encouraged to make the most of this time by bringing a range of things – including a blanket – to keep busy…bring your iPad, your iPod, DVD movies, your favorite books, a deck of cards, knitting materials…or bring along a friend to keep you company.
After treatment
- The IV catheter will be removed, and your vitals re-checked.
- You may wish to discuss any side effects you are experiencing with the administrator OR nurse.
- You may receive prescriptions for combating side effects…have them filled before going home as side effects can appear quite suddenly.
- You will be advised to drink plenty of fluids.
- In the beginning, at least until you know how you are going to feel after chemotherapy, you may wish to arrange a ride home with a friend, or plan to take a taxi. Organizations such as the American Cancer Society are set up to help with transportation at a low cost and – in some cases – no cost.
- Don’t hesitate to call your physician or your oncology navigator if you have questions before, during, or after chemotherapy.
