Cancer patients may desire to stay close to family and loved ones as they receive their treatment. Patients can receive cancer care in the comfort of their homes. This ensures that the patient is comfortable and well cared for with friends and family in a familiar environment. The types of treatments administered at home include oral treatments such as pills, tablets, and liquids. It also involves topical treatment and, in some cases, may include intravenous treatment (IV).
IV treatment offered to a cancer patient at home requires a nurse or a medical practitioner to come to the patient’s home to administer the treatment. For the other types of treatment in-home cancer care, like oral treatment, the nurse will come to monitor the patient’s condition. The nurse will also teach the caregivers how to monitor the patient and administer the treatment. In an emergency or when the patient’s condition worsens, the caregiver is instructed to contact the health care provider who arranges for emergency care.
Drug Safety for Home Cancer Care. Most cancer drugs are classified as hazardous when taken wrongly. In-home cancer care, only the patient should be exposed to the drugs. If you have a cancer patient, there are important guidelines you should adhere to ensure the patient’s safety and the people at home. They include:
- Hygiene. The patient’s clothes and other personal items should be washed separately in hot water to disinfect well. The caregiver’s clothes also need to be washed well to ensure they are very clean and germ-free. The patient can use the same toilet as the rest of the family, but you have to ensure the toilet is cleaned regularly and flashed at least twice after use.
- Storage of Medicine. Drugs should be stored safely away from children and pets, and they should also be stored separately to avoid confusion. They should keep in a clean, dry place away from moisture as it could affect or damage the drugs.
- Disposal of Drugs and Medical Supplies. A special container for throwing away drugs and supplies like needles will be provided. They should not be disposed of in regular trash.
- Administering the Drugs. The caregiver should follow the doctor’s prescription when giving the drugs to the patient. Only the patient should touch the drugs, and the caregiver must use disposable gloves. After which, they are supposed to clean their hands with soap and water. A special kit is offered to clean up spills of the medicine safely.
A Compassionate and Caring Team
Ameriprime hospice care ensures you get skilled medical guidance and support on home cancer care in nursing homes, care facilities, and even hospitals. Our well-trained personnel will walk every step with you throughout your treatment process. Are you in Dallas, Richardson, Carrolton, Garland, and surrounding TX communities? Don’t hesitate to contact us at (972) 787-0949 or on the contact form on our website to book your 24/7 hospice care.
