Outpatient Chemotherapy & Infusion
Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs designed to slow or stop the
growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells in the body.
- Chemotherapy may be used:
- As a primary treatment to destroy cancer cells
- Before another treatment to shrink a tumor
- After another treatment to destroy any remaining cancer cells
- To relieve symptoms of advanced cancer
There are a variety of ways chemotherapy can be delivered: orally (by mouth
as a pill or liquid), intravenously, topically (as a cream on the skin),
by injection or direct placement.
When chemotherapy drugs travel through the bloodstream to reach cells throughout
the body, it is called systemic chemotherapy. When chemotherapy drugs
are directed to a specific area of the body, it is called regional chemotherapy.
Patient-Centered Care
ChemoOur Outpatient Oncology & Infusion Unit provides chemotherapy
and medical infusion services in a calm, comfortable setting. Care in
the unit is provided by oncology certified nurses, whose primary concern
is the safety of our patients during treatment. Patient and family education
and support, ongoing evaluation of our patients' progress, and patient/family
coping mechanisms are all part of your care.
The focus of patient-centered care is to maintain our patients' health,
independence and role in the community. Patients are encouraged to become
active participants in their care and the decision-making process. Psychosocial,
emotional and physical needs are evaluated and communicated to all members
of the health care team. Nutritional support is available to assist patients
with any needs they may have throughout their treatment.