Preparing for chemotherapy, especially if it’s your first time, can feel overwhelming and daunting. Packing a bag ahead of your infusion appointment can help ease some of that stress and ensure you feel comfortable and prepared. Ashley Marks, an oncology nurse navigator at Woman’s Hospital, answers frequently asked questions and shares her thoughts on what to expect throughout your infusion.
What is an oncology nurse navigator and how will they help me?
An oncology nurse navigator is a certified cancer care nurse who will act as your personal guide and advocate throughout your journey. Their role is to help you understand your diagnosis and treatment plan, explain potential side effects, coordinate care, and connect you with the right resources every step of the way.
At Woman’s, you are never alone; our goal is to support not just your medical needs, but your overall well-being. In addition to your primary care team, your oncology nurse navigator will also connect you to resources such as dietitians, social workers, chaplains, palliative care nurse navigators, survivorship navigators, and a massage therapist who offers hand and foot massages several days a week.
What should I expect during my transfusion or chemo visits?
Upon your arrival, our infusion staff will help you check in. Most visits begin with lab work, followed by a quick visit with your physician. From there, you will go to the infusion suite where you will have your own private infusion bay, complete with a reclining chair, a television with earphones, and a comfortable chair for your visitor. You will also receive a binder that contains your personalized chemotherapy treatment plan, information about your diagnosis, potential side effects, and guidance for managing those side effects at home.
Who can come with me during my infusion?
Because a strong support system can make a significant difference in your infusion experience, patients may bring one designated support person who is at least 16 years old. We recommend choosing someone who comforts you and who can also listen carefully to the nurses’ instructions since you may not absorb everything being shared in the moment.
Will I need to bring a designated driver?
Some therapies include pre-medications that may cause drowsiness, but others do not. Although each regimen varies, we recommend arranging for someone to drive you home from your first appointment. If you run into a transportation issue during your appointment, our social workers can help coordinate ride assistance if necessary.
What can I bring to my appointment?
Warm and convenient clothes – Dress comfortably, but keep in mind that nurses will need access to your IV site. Button-down shirts, V-neck tops, or loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up are ideal.
Comfort items – Woman’s provides reclining chairs, pillows, blankets, and access to a blanket warmer. However, you are more than welcome to bring your own comfort items to make your infusion bay feel more like home.
Snacks – Healthy snacks are available, but some patients prefer to bring their own. Please avoid foods with strong odors, as some patients are more sensitive to smells than others.
Entertainment – Having a form of entertainment can help pass the time and keep your mind off the treatment. Consider bringing:
- Pens, pencils, or highlighters
- Books or notebooks
- Coloring books
- Playing cards
- Laptop, iPad, Kindle, or headphones
- Chargers for electronic devices
- Word searches or crossword puzzles
What isn’t allowed at my appointment?
Diffusers and strong scents are not allowed during your visit, so please make sure that neither you nor your visitor wear strong perfumes or heavily scented laundry products. For patients who benefit from aromatherapy, small personal inhalers that do not permeate the infusion suite are available for purchase.
How long do the infusion appointments typically last?
Depending on your specific treatment, your appointment may last anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Are there any common side effects to chemotherapy?
Although modern medicine has helped control feelings of nausea, some patients might still feel a bit queasy. Certain drugs might also cause peripheral neuropathy, which is numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes. Bringing cool packs for these areas may help reduce the amount of chemotherapy that reaches them, which can decrease the tingling. If you are using a cold cap to help reduce hair loss, please remember to bring your cap and all required supplies.
Remember, there is no “perfect” chemotherapy bag. Your needs may change as you become more familiar with your treatment routine. Start with what feels most comforting and practical, and adjust as needed after your first few visits.
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