4. Preparing for Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medications that act on cancer cells throughout the body. The treatment plan, number of cycles, interval between cycles, and possible side effects vary according to the drug regimen and each patient's physical condition. Preparing in advance helps you understand the steps, ease anxiety, and know how to care for yourself at home.

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💬 Before receiving chemotherapy, ask your care team clearly: "What is my regimen, how many cycles will I need, what side effects should I watch for, and who/which channel should I contact if I have a fever or unusual symptoms?"

Before your chemotherapy day

• Understand your treatment plan, including the regimen name, number of cycles, interval between cycles, duration of each session, and blood-test appointment dates.

• Tell your doctor and nurse about any underlying conditions, drug allergy history, pregnancy or family planning, and any unusual symptoms before your appointment.

• Bring a list of all medications you are taking, including regular medications, vitamins, herbal products, and supplements, as some may affect treatment or blood clotting.

• Have blood tests or other tests as scheduled by your doctor, to assess your readiness — such as blood counts and liver, kidney, or heart function as appropriate.

• Make sure you understand how to use anti-nausea medication, post-chemo medication, or medications that prevent side effects — such as whether to take them before or after food, for how many days, and what to do if you miss a dose.

• Have the hospital's phone number or contact channel ready, especially in case of fever, chills, shortness of breath, severe vomiting, or unusual symptoms after returning home.

The night before chemotherapy

• Get enough rest, eat light, easily digestible food, and drink water as usual or as advised by your doctor.

• Do not start any new medication, herbal product, vitamin, or supplement on your own without consulting your care team.

• Pack a small bag for the day, such as appointment documents, your medication list, a warm jacket, a wrap, a book, headphones, suitable snacks, and water, if your care team permits.

• If you have a fever, cough, sore throat, diarrhea, painful urination, an inflamed wound, or feel unwell, inform the hospital before coming for treatment

On your chemotherapy day

• Do not fast on your own, unless your doctor specifically instructs you to; have a light meal or easily digestible food.

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arm or chest if you have a port or infusion device.

• Arrive on time so there is time to check vital signs, weigh you, review blood results, and prepare the medication before starting.

• The nurse may open a vein or use an infusion device such as a port according to your treatment plan, and may give anti-nausea or anti-allergy medication before starting.

• During the infusion, if you have a rash, itching, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, palpitations, burning pain at the vein site, or feel abnormal, tell the nurse immediately.

• For the first session, it is best to have a family member or caregiver with you, to help listen to instructions, receive medications, and assist on the way home.

After receiving chemotherapy and watching for symptoms

• Take post-chemo medication as prescribed, completely and on time, especially anti-nausea medication or medications used to prevent side effects.

• Drink water and eat cooked, clean food as your body can tolerate. If you can eat very little, consult your care team.

• Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with people who have a fever, cough, sore throat, or signs of infection.

• Keep your mouth clean, use a soft toothbrush, and tell your care team if you have mouth sores, cannot eat, or have severe pain.

• Keep a record of symptoms after treatment — such as fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, numbness in the hands and feet, rash, or fatigue — to report at your next appointment.