Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the treatment of cancer with drugs, with the aim of curing the disease or controlling the symptoms.

There are various groups of treatments for different cancer sites or types. The treatment regime prescribed within these groups depends on each individual patient’s condition, with the dosage determined by the patient's height and weight.

The average course of chemotherapy treatment is six months, with the number of visits ranging from one a week to one a month and the length of each visit ranging from half an hour to seven hours depending on the individual treatment regime.

Most patients are pleasantly surprised that the chemotherapy unit 'does not look like a hospital ward'. Treatment is provided in comfortable, reclining chairs arranged so that patients can talk to each other or to friends and family who come with them. There is a bedroom where patients can receive treatment if they feel unwell.

When they first start a course of chemotherapy, patients are seen by their oncologist who confirms their treatment. They are then taken round the unit by one of the qualified nurses who explains what will happen, what to expect during the treatment and how to get help and support.

While they are on the unit, patients and those accompanying them can make drinks and snacks in the kitchen area of the waiting room.

Patients receive one to one chemotherapy care from expert qualified nurses during their treatment but there is also a small team of trained oncology nurses who provide advice and support between visits and throughout the course of treatment, so patients are not left alone.

We also have a 24 hour dedicated telephone helpline for patients to ring for advice and support at any time of the day or night.

A team of professionals, made up of a receptionist, nurses, doctors, a secretary, pharmacists and dieticians, work together on the unit to guide each patient through their own course of treatment.

 Useful Links

Radiotherapy

Cancer Services