Onconurs3

I work in oncology and at our facility they also state that we are to give meds within 30 minutes before or after scheduled MAK time. However, in my unit each patient has about 20 meds a piece, 4-5 which are IV route. I would like to know how they expect you to hang 2 antibiotics, albumin, and mag at the same time 0900? You are right, the times are completely nuts, but they usually allow us one hour both ways in general because no one can generally make the 30 minute mark.

So sorry to hear about this diagnosis, I will give you my best information based on the time I have been in oncology. Yes, this type of cancer is more of a widespread type, kind of like leukemia and lymphomas which are more systemic rather than localized to one area. The only thing I can tell you is that this type of cancer is one of the more rare types which means less research and chemotherapeutic agents at this point.

For me, the hardest part of oncology nursing where I am at now, is trying to deal with a physician who is not giving patients the true idenity of the extent of their disease. To work in oncology you have to be compassionate, but also reveal the truth no matter how difficult or extensive the disease. Be prepared to come into contact with physicians who do not want to give up or give the bad news. I am currently working with a physician who has given TPN on a patient's deathbed, given chemotherapy for stage 4 pancreatic cancer on a patient who has a bili that is off the charts and is septic and probably won't make it through the week. All I am saying is be prepared to be compassionate yet tough and stand for your patients when they can't.