Getting Ready for Your First Chemotherapy Session

Knowing what to expect on the first day of chemotherapy can help you or a loved one prepare and ease any stress or anxiety that comes with the unknown.

How To Mentally Prepare

Before you start treatment, prepare yourself mentally. Know we’re here for you and that we’re going to do our best for you. Having a positive attitude about your treatment helps tremendously. And, don’t be afraid to ask your doctors and nurses questions.

What To Expect

The first day will be the longest day, so expect to spend a full day in the clinic. Your care team checks the doctor’s orders, reviews lab work and connects a central line for intravenous treatment, if needed. Since you won’t know how your body will react to treatment, plan to have someone drive you to and from the clinic on the first day. After the first day, you’ll be in the clinic at least two hours for each treatment.

What To Bring

We want you to be as comfortable as possible. Many people bring books, magazines, tablets or other electronic devices to keep themselves entertained. You may feel like napping or eating, so pack a favorite blanket and a few snacks.

What To Wear

Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. To place a central lines or port-a-catheter, your nurse needs easy access to your upper arm or chest, so shirts with loose sleeves and necklines are best.

When To Call Your Oncologist

When you have any health-related problem, no matter how minor, call your oncologist. It could be a side effect of your treatment. Your primary care physician may not know the full extent of your treatment.

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Ashlynn Wogomon

Ashlynn Wogomon, MSN, RN, OCN, is the patient care supervisor for the oncology floor at North Kansas City Hospital. Her job involves staff education, support and scheduling for new staff orientation. She also rounds on and assists patients with any needs they may have. She’s been with NKCH for six years and loves working on the oncology floor. Outside of work, Ashlynn and her husband Alex are foster parents. Currently, they have four children in their home who keep them very busy, yet they wouldn’t have it any other way.