Chemotherapy is a type of treatment used to treat cancer. The thought of having chemotherapy may cause some anxiety, but knowing what chemotherapy is, how it works, and what to expect can often help relieve your fears. The information below is specific to your chemotherapy experience at West. Should you have any questions, please contact your physician, infusion nurse, or our care support coordinators at anytime.
Please know that infusion or chemotherapy treatments are not part of every patient’s care plan.
What to Expect
- Labs: Once you check in at our clinic, your labs will be drawn.
- Assessment: Your infusion nurse will take a quick assessment before ordering your medication from pharmacy to be mixed.
- Medication Preparation: For your safety, we wait to mix your medications until we know you are okay to receive treatment. Your medication is prepared based on your current height, weight, and most recent lab results.
- Your Infusion: Your nurse will start your treatment through an IV or port. Treatment times vary from about 15 minutes to several hours, depending on your treatment plan.
What to Bring
- A book or another form of entertainment
- Headphones
- Snacks in case you get hungry
- A blanket for your comfort
- A support person who can keep you company - please note that we only allow one support person (16 year of age or old) in our infusion suite
Helpful Tips
- Try eating several small meals throughout the day. Smaller meals are usually easier to tolerate than large meals.
- Avoid spicy or greasy foods if you are nauseated.
- Drink plenty of water. Drink at least 6 – 8 glasses (8 oz) a day or two before and after your treatment.
- Activity will help prevent fatigue, so try light exercise such as walking.
- Do not take aspirin unless it is prescribed by your oncologist.
- Tell your care team about all medications, vitamins, supplements, and allergies. Be sure to share any medication or dose changes made by other doctors.
- Do not drink alcohol beverages the day before, the day of, or the day after chemotherapy because alcohol tends to dehydrate your body.
For questions, call 901.683.0055 during or after office hours, message your care team through your patient portal, or email support@westclinic.com.