Home care for the person with cancer

Nearly 90% of all cancer care is delivered in outpatient settings (including home care). Home care for the person with cancer combines the routine objectives of a comprehensive home healthcare program with services especially designed for individuals with cancer. A key component is the involvement of and concern for family members or other designated caregivers. This article reviews interventions most often incorporated into home care plans, including parenteral and enteral nutrition; pain management; antimicrobial, antiemetic, immunosuppressive, and blood component therapies; and administration of biologic response modifiers. Descriptions of cancer-related resources useful to the home care nurse are included.