The third step in a chemotherapy treatment is administration of the drug to the patient. This is done by a nurse who checks that the right patient is getting the right drug at the right time. Everyone involved in the care of a patient contributes to the monitoring of the patient after the drug is given, which is the fourth step in a chemotherapy treatment. The patient's nurse in particular watches for such things as condition of the infusion site and side effects such as nausea and vomiting. If the nurse has questions, the unit pharmacist or the patient's physician is consulted.
Nurses check patients frequently.
How often depends on the drug. We also instruct the patient and family about what problems or side effects to watch for. In the case of experimental drugs, the process of ordering and administering the drug is audited daily, said Linda Moore. It occurs the same day the patient receives treatment. She also examines the patient's record and the nurse's notes.