Chemotherapy is a widely utilised treatment approach for patients with cancer. However, this treatment pathway poses substantial challenges for both patients and healthcare professionals due to its potential for serious and enduring side effects.

This Ausmed Course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of how to best care for patients undergoing chemotherapy, while also prioritising their own safety in practice.

Who it's for:

This Ausmed Course is intended for nurses and other healthcare professionals looking to increase their understanding of the role of the clinician in caring for a patient undergoing chemotherapy.

Why it's needed:

Chemotherapy is one of the most common treatment options that can cure or help to contain the spread of cancerous growths and provide symptom relief. However, the consequence of this treatment pathway is that it presents many onerous side effects and adverse events, which commonly impact patient quality of life. Chemotherapy drugs are also high-risk medications that pose a safety risk to healthcare professionals.

Therefore, it is essential for all healthcare professionals to understand the protocols surrounding chemotherapy and its potentially toxic side effects if they are to provide and practice safe, high-quality care to patients without endangering themselves. Additionally, while also fostering and maintaining a supportive relationship with patients that reflects respect and dignity in their care.

Purpose

The purpose of this Ausmed Course is to provide an enhanced, in-depth understanding of chemotherapy care considerations in order to best support patients with cancer, improve nursing practice and reduce harm for both patients and healthcare professionals.