The idea of starting chemotherapy can seem overwhelming and uncertain for a cancer patient. You may have countless questions in mind about what lies ahead as you step into unknown territory. While it’s natural to feel nervous about your first chemotherapy session, knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and make the entire process seem more seamless. Your first day of chemotherapy is not just about receiving treatment but also knowing your cancer care team and settings where you would be receiving ongoing care. This guide is a practical insight into what typically happens on the first day of your chemotherapy.

What to Expect on your First Day of Chemotherapy?

Usually, the very first day of your chemotherapy sessions is deemed to be of the longest duration. The entire day may be divided into four steps, starting from check-in procedures, blood tests, pre-medications, and finally, the infusion itself. Each step is vital and helps ensure your treatment is both safe and effective.

A. Check-in procedures: Upon arrival at the treatment centre, as part of the check-in procedure, a nurse would record your vitals such as height, weight, pulse, blood pressure, and body temperature. These parameters are important in calculating and assessing the exact medication dosage that needs to be administered to you.

B. Blood tests: Blood cell counts give your healthcare provider a snapshot of how well your body is functioning before the treatment begins. These details will help them make a decision whether it is safe to proceed with chemotherapy, adjust drug dosages (if necessary), and lower the risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or anemia. Along with blood tests, reviewing allergies and medications that you are currently on are equally essential.

C. Pre-medications: Receiving pre-medications before the start of chemotherapy helps alleviate feelings of nausea and vomiting, reduces allergic reactions, as well as improves comfort and lessens pain during treatment.

D. Infusion: It is important to understand your chemotherapy set-up before the actual procedure starts. The medication will be administered to you either through a peripheral IV line in your arm or via a chest port (Port-a-Cath). Port-a-Cath has several advantages over drug administration through a normal IV line. Since it is an implantable port, fewer needle pricks are required. Less needle pricks mean greater comfort and reduced pain for the patients.

Moreover, frequent puncturing may damage the veins which can happen during IV administrations. Finally, Port-a-Cath is a more suitable option for long-term infusions.

Once venous access is gained, the actual drug infusion process starts. Throughout the infusion, vitals such as blood pressure are monitored. After the chemotherapy is over, the temporary IV cannula inserted into your hand or arm is immediately removed. In case the chemotherapy was done using a Port-a-Cath, the nurse on duty will flush out the port using saline.

Practical Tips for Patients to Prepare for the First Chemotherapy Session

Now that you have had a run-down of what your first day of chemotherapy entails, here are few practical tips that will help you navigate the day better.

1. Arrive early at the treatment centre and complete all paperwork before the infusion starts to avoid last minute rush.

2. Wear loose, comfortable but layered clothing to keep you warm enough as the treatment rooms can sometimes feel cold. You may carry a blanket with you too.

3. Carry essential articles of need such as a water bottle, phone charger, and a book to read while you undergo the treatment. Along with these, make sure to bring a file containing your past medical history, list of medications, and allergies.

4. Have a family member or a friend accompany you in case you need assistance driving back post infusion.

Remember that every patient’s experience at the first chemotherapy session is unique and different. Talk openly with your healthcare provider if you have any questions and immediately report to your healthcare team if you experience high grades of fever, unusual bleeding, or severe chills as these could be signs of an infection. By staying informed and communicating openly with your healthcare team, you can make your first day of chemotherapy session smooth and hassle-free.