Essential Items for Your Chemotherapy Appointment
Chemotherapy can be a daunting experience for many patients, inducing feelings of anxiety, sadness, and fear. However, there are ways to make the sessions more manageable and even comforting.
Nurse practitioner Mailey Wilks, CNP, a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society, suggests packing a small bag of items for each session. This bag can act as a source of comfort and distraction during the treatment.
For first-time chemotherapy sessions, patients might feel more nervous due to uncertainty. Having familiar items from home can help ease anxiety. Wearing comfortable clothes, such as sweats or yoga pants, can make the sessions more comfortable. A small blanket or special pillow can provide comfort, while a hat or zip-up hoodie can help keep the patient warm.
Staying hydrated during chemotherapy is important, so beverages like sparkling water or decaffeinated tea can be brought. Eating adequate amounts of calories and protein is also crucial. Snacks like hard candy, lemon drops, or ginger candy can help satisfy hunger.
Streaming movies or TV shows can pass time and offer a distraction. If visitors are allowed, asking a loved one or good friend to accompany the patient to the appointment can help make the session less intimidating. Downloading games on a phone or tablet can offer another form of distraction.
Reading materials, such as books, audiobooks, or prayer books, can provide a peaceful escape. Writing or drawing materials, such as colored pencils or markers, can be used for relaxation. Creating a playlist of favourite music and bringing earbuds can provide entertainment.
Some cancer centres have an art therapy program which can improve emotional and physical healing. Hobby materials, such as knitting, crocheting, beading, or quilting supplies, can be used during sessions. These items are not specified, allowing for personal preference.
Nurse practitioner Mailey Wilks, CNP, also recommends bringing family members from your hometown with you. This can offer a sense of familiarity and support during the treatment.
It's important to remember that these feelings during chemotherapy are considered normal. The duration of sessions varies from patient to patient, so having a bag of essential items can help make the experience more bearable. Packing items can also offer a distraction during the treatment, helping to pass the time more easily.
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