How IV Nurses Ensure Safe and Comfortable Cancer Treatment
During your first infusion appointment, you might notice something: while your oncologist develops your treatment plan, there's someone else who'll be by your side through every treatment session. That's your IV nurse. They treat you and work with other professionals to make each infusion at PCSRI’s infusion center as safe and comfortable as possible.
In cancer care, your IV nurse is often the only consistent presence throughout your therapy. Their role requires more than simply starting an intravenous line. They monitor how you respond to each infusion, manage side effects, and support you personally to help make what can be an overwhelming time.
When you come in for chemotherapy or immunotherapy, your nurse takes the time to understand any concerns you may have. Like, what will this actually feel like? Will it hurt? What if I'm nervous? They'll notice if you seem worried. They'll remember that you prefer your left arm. Between sessions, they'll check in on how you're managing at home. This attention to the details of your experience makes a real difference.
What IV Nurses Do During Your Treatment:
- Monitor your vital signs throughout your infusion
- Watch for any adverse reactions or side effects
- Adjust your treatment if needed to keep you comfortable
- Administer medications to manage symptoms like nausea or anxiety
Our nurses' number one priority is to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout your session.
Beyond the technical aspects of treatment, our nurses at PCSRI serve as teachers and guides, explaining what to expect during your infusion, answering questions about side effects, and offering practical advice for days between treatments. This education helps you feel more prepared and less anxious about what's ahead.
Because you typically see the same nurses throughout your treatment, they get to know you. Not just your medical history, but you as a person. Maybe you have grandkids you love talking about, or you're worried about missing work, or you just need someone to sit quietly with you. These relationships create a sense of familiarity that can ease some of the stress that comes with cancer treatment.
How IV Nurses Support Your Complete Care:
Your nurse also serves as an important point of contact between you and your broader care team.
- They communicate with your oncologist about your treatment response
- Collaborate with specialists to address any complications that may arise
- Document every detail of your care for your medical team
This coordination helps ensure everyone is working together toward your treatment goals and prevents errors that can happen when information doesn't flow smoothly between providers.
At PCSRI, our IV nurses are part of the comprehensive care team that's been serving the Gettysburg community for more than 25 years. We understand that cancer treatment involves more than just medical procedures. It requires consistent, compassionate care from people who take the time to know you. If you have questions about what to expect during treatment, know that our team is here to walk you through every step.