Related Experiment Videos
Paclitaxel (Taxol)--a guide to administration
1Centre for Cancer and Palliative Care Studies, Institute of Cancer Research/Royal Marsden NHS Trust, London, UK.
European Journal of Cancer Care
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Nurses require updated knowledge for administering Paclitaxel (Taxol) chemotherapy, a new agent for ovarian and breast cancers. Understanding its side effects and specific administration needs, like avoiding PVC tubing, is crucial for patient care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Care
Background:
- Paclitaxel (Taxol) is increasingly used in Europe for ovarian and metastatic breast cancer.
- Effective nursing care requires understanding of this new chemotherapeutic agent.
- Patients previously treated with platinum-based chemotherapy may receive Paclitaxel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide nurses with essential information on Paclitaxel chemotherapy.
- To cover the history, mechanism of action, side effects, and administration of Paclitaxel.
- To highlight critical administration considerations for Paclitaxel.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on Paclitaxel chemotherapy.
- Synthesis of information regarding Paclitaxel's clinical use.
- Identification of key nursing implications for Paclitaxel administration.
Main Results:
- Paclitaxel exhibits side effects including hypersensitivity reactions, neutropenia, peripheral neuropathy, bradycardia, alopecia, malaise, myalgias, and arthralgias.
- Paclitaxel leaches plasticizers from standard polyvinyl chloride (PVC) intravenous-giving sets.
- Alternative administration systems are necessary to prevent complications.
Conclusions:
- Nurses must be educated on Paclitaxel's side effect profile.
- Proper administration protocols, including the use of non-PVC materials, are vital.
- Equipping nurses with this knowledge ensures safe and effective patient care with Paclitaxel.