What is an infusion pump for chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy pumps are also referred to as infusion pumps. They are one of the ways you can receive chemotherapy in a controlled manner.
When you have chemotherapy through a central line, a pump is attached to provide a controlled amount of drugs very slowly into your bloodstream. There are different types of pumps, such as drip stands, continuous pressure pumps, battery operated pumps, and CADD pumps.
Chemotherapy Facts
Chemotherapy schedules are different for many patients. We try to give you a complete schedule for the treatment regimen. It is important you receive your chemo at the proper intervals. If you wish to cancel, please give us 24 to 48 hours notice.
- Chemo may affect your blood, so we will monitor your counts closely and check other lab work as needed.
- Your doctor will see you prior to each treatment to review lab results, discuss your response to treatment and answer any questions.
Chemotherapy Tips
Chemotherapy can cause nausea and vomiting at times. Here are some tips to reduce these instances.
- Eat small meals throughout the day versus three large meals.
- Reduce strong smells and taste by serving food at room temperature.
- Eat and drink slowly.
- Avoid foods that are overly sweet, salty, spicy, or fatty.
- If you’re having nausea, suck on ice or mints.
- Avoid cooking odors, smoke, or perfume.
- Some chemo can cause a metallic taste. In that case use plastic utensils.
Chemotherapy can cause mouth sores. Mouth care is extremely important during treatment.
- Use a soft toothbrush
- Suck on ice chips.
- Suck on hard candy when needed.
- Moisten foods as much as possible.
- Avoid acidic foods.
- Avoid salty and spicy foods.
- Use a straw if needed
- If no relief is reached, call our nurses for Magic Mouth Wash
Call Us At: 856-435-1777
Chemotherapy can cause neutropenia, a low level of white blood cells in the blood. The lower the level, the higher the risk for infection.
Try to avoid crowded places or individuals that may be sick when white blood cell counts are low. If any of the following occurs, please notify us quickly.
- A temperature higher than 100.4 degrees.
- Shaking chills.
- Changes in urinary frequency, color, or smell.
- Changes in breathing, sore throat, sputum or constant cough.
- Changes in skin conditions such as redness, inflammation, or pain.
When To Call The Office
- Fever higher than 100.4 degrees.
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- Uncontrolled diarrhea or constipation lasting longer than 24 hours.
- Inability to eat or drink.
- Sores in mouth or throat\new swelling in any area of the body
- Uncontrolled pain.
- Newly developed rashes.
Call Us At: 856-435-1777