Chemotherapy for glioblastoma multiforme

Treatment for the patient with a glioblastoma multiforme often includes chemotherapy with many specific nursing implications directly associated with this form of treatment. While the four agents described share some common adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting, even with this relatively common adverse effect, the onset, duration and severity varies. Multiple other adverse effects like nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, thrombocytopenia and leukocytopenia vary greatly from agent to agent in occurrence and severity. Knowing the mode of action for each agent, which adverse effects to expect, when to expect them and appropriate treatment measures will help the nurse, patient and family to better manage these effects and improve quality of life.