NR 293 Week 2 Discussion

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Discuss safety precautions you would include when teaching patients about chemotherapeutic drugs. Chemotherapy is a powerful drug treatment that destroys cancer cells as well as rapidly dividing normal cells, it is most often used to treat cancer (Lilley, Collins, & Snyder, 2020). Almost all chemotherapeutic drugs have the capability/potential to cause severe adverse effects, toxicity, and serious complications. Therefore, it is extremely important for a nurse administering these drugs to pay close attention to the patient’s responses as they administer the drugs. There are two types of chemotherapy: oral and IV. Oral chemotherapy may be easier or more convenient for some patients, however there are some disadvantages to it as well, these patients are not constantly monitored by their health care provider and they are not receiving the same type of education that an IV chemotherapy patient is. “Patient education is vital to promote patient safety, optimal dosing, and adherence to the treatment plan” (Hartigan, 2003). Nurses have many roles and responsibilities; one specific responsibility is the educating of patients. Many patient’s may not understand everything they need to do or follow while they are taking or receiving certain medications. As a nurse you need to provide this education and teaching to the patient, especially when it comes to chemotherapeutic drugs. Safety precautions I would include when educating a patient on chemotherapeutic drugs would be:  Chemotherapy is an individualized experience, both physically and emotionally. Every person with experience different side effects and emotions during this experience (UCSF Health, 2020).  Frequently perform hand hygiene in order to prevent an infection.  If you notice any signs of a fever, headache, sore throat, cough, faintness, SOB, or bleeding immediately report to your health care provider (Lilley, Collins, & Snyder, 2020).  You will experience nausea. It is important to eat a small, light meal before receiving chemotherapy. Eat what sounds good. Do not skip meals. Prep meals or freeze meals so you don’t have to cook after chemotherapy (USCF Health, 2020).  You will experience fatigue. Plan activities so that you aren’t required to do anything after chemotherapy. Nap whenever you can. Try and exercise when possible.  You will experience hair loss. Do what is best for you – shave your head, buy a wig, buy a hair wrap. Do whatever fits your needs. Include friends and family – a support system is extremely important during this time.  You will experience appetite and taste changes. Eat what appeals to you. Eat warm foods, not hot. Avoid unappealing smells. Drink lots of water during the day. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, spicy foods, citrus foods, and foods that have a rough texture (Lilley, Collins, & Snyder, 2020).  You will experience diarrhea and constipation. Drink plenty of fluids. Take stool softeners. Stay active. Try foods such as prunes, bran, fruits and vegetables. Use soft toilet paper and A&D ointment.  You will experience mouth sores. Perform daily mouth care. Make sure you are frequently brushing your teeth. Find alcohol free mouthwashes.  You will experience a decrease in skin integrity. Be sure to keep the skin dry and clean. Use moisturizer if needed. This study source was downloaded by 100000828757511 from CourseHero.com on 07-05-2021 08:30:12 GMT

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