Evidence-Based Practice: Managing Chemotherapy Extravasation

Abstract

Chemotherapy administration is a serious procedure. Chemotherapy has the capacity to cure disease, at the same time it is capable of great destruction to normal cells as well. Oncology Nurses trained in Chemotherapy are able to safely undertake this activity. However extravasations of chemotherapeutic agents are occasionally inevitable. It is constant issue which requires monitoring and care. Patients with irritant reactions usually report aches, pain, tightness or related symptoms. We undertook a review of chemotherapy extravasations from Jan 2014 to July 2015. 12 patients were identified with chemotherapy extravasation symptoms. This paper reviews the causes which lead to extravasation, and discuss treatment approaches, proactive treatment methods and prevent further complications based on current evidence. Furthermore, to provide knowledge and skills that will facilitate nursing staff to, recognize, and successfully treat extravasation injuries in adults.