How to Prepare for Your First Chemotherapy Treatment

## Before Chemo Day **Eat a light meal beforehand.** An empty stomach can worsen nausea, but a heavy meal is also not ideal. Something bland and moderate — like toast, rice, or scrambled eggs — works well for most people. **Hydrate well the day before and the morning of.** Good hydration makes IV access easier and helps your kidneys process the drugs. Aim for 8+ glasses of water. **Fill anti-nausea prescriptions in advance.** Your oncologist will prescribe anti-nausea medications before your first infusion. Have them filled and ready at home — you don't want to be searching for a pharmacy on infusion day. **Get a port placed if recommended.** Many patients having multiple infusions benefit from a **port** (implanted venous access device) rather than IV placement in a vein each time. Ask if this applies to you. **Arrange transportation.** You should not drive yourself home after most infusions, particularly the first one. Side effects can include fatigue, dizziness, and cognitive changes. Plan for a driver. **Arrange help for 2–3 days after.** The days following infusion are often the most challenging. Have someone available to help with meals, medications, and transportation. ## What to Bring to the Infusion Center - Photo ID and insurance card - A list of all your current medications - Water bottle (stay hydrated during infusion) - Snacks you tolerate well - Something to keep you occupied: book, tablet, headphones, downloaded shows - A blanket (infusion centers can be cold) - A supportive person (many centers allow one visitor) - Charger for your phone or device - Note-taking materials or use OncoNav's diary to log how you feel ## During the Infusion Infusions can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours depending on the regimen. You'll receive: 1. Pre-medications first (anti-nausea drugs, steroids, antihistamines) 2. The chemotherapy drug(s) 3. Post-flush to clear the line **Tell your nurse immediately** if you feel: - Flushing, hives, or a rash - Difficulty breathing or chest tightness - Pain or burning at the IV site - Dizziness or feeling faint These can be signs of a reaction. Reactions are manageable when caught early. ## The First 24–72 Hours This is typically the hardest stretch. Nausea, fatigue, and a general "off" feeling are common. Take your anti-nausea medications **on schedule**, not just when you feel sick. **Day 1–3:** Take anti-nausea meds, rest, hydrate, eat bland foods **Day 5–10:** Watch for fever ≥ 100.4°F — this is the nadir period. If you develop a fever, call your oncology team immediately. **Day 10–14:** Most people start to feel more like themselves ## Keep a Symptom Log Use OncoNav to log how you feel each day after your infusion. This helps you and your care team identify patterns and adjust anti-nausea or other supportive medications for future cycles.