Fourth Annual Chicago Supportive Oncology Conference

Safeguarding patients and avoiding medical errors in chemotherapy infusion suites

Linda K. Dohse, RN, BSN, CRNI

Palmetto Hematology Oncology, PA, Gibbs Cancer Center, Spartanburg, SC

Safety should be the primary goal of ambulatory centers. To ensure safety, there must be established processes, good communication, and careful treatment delivery. Treatment-related mistakes resulting in undertreatment, toxicities, hospitalization, or even death can occur when process is ignored, communication is poor, or treatment delivery is rushed. In addition, to achieve the best possible outcome, patients should be provided with detailed education on what to expect in terms of toxicity and side-effect prevention and management. Practice outcomes should be reviewed and scrutinized for safety and efficacy. This information can help provide practice-based evidence of quality care.

Commun Oncol 2008;5:250–252   print e-mail full text 82 kb