Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a form of treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Depending on your particular circumstances, you may receive chemotherapy alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy may be used to treat a variety of cancers, including those that recur or have spread outside the primary site (metastasized) to other parts of the body.

Our oncology team includes nurses who have received certification in delivering chemotherapy. Focused on your safety and peace of mind, we prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout every stage of treatment and beyond.

What to expect

Chemotherapy may be delivered in different ways depending on your particular diagnosis and treatment plan. Some of those methods include:

Infusions. Chemotherapy drugs are injected into a vein either through a needle or a device known as a port, which can be surgically implanted under the skin.

Oral medication. Some chemotherapies can be taken orally in the form of a pill or capsule.

Shots. Sometimes chemotherapy drugs can be injected into a muscle or under the skin.

Creams. Known as topical chemotherapy, creams may be used to treat some forms of skin cancer.

Direct delivery into a part of the body. Chemotherapy drugs are delivered via a catheter (long, thin tube) or another method into certain structures or parts of the body such as the bladder, chest or belly.

Where you receive chemotherapy depends on several factors, such as the particular drugs used and the recommendations of your treatment team. Some patients may receive chemotherapy in a facility called an infusion center.

MultiCare infusion centers offer a comfortable care environment with many amenities, including:

• Reclining chairs
• The option to receive care in a group setting close to other patients, or in an area with more privacy
• Complimentary drinks and snacks
• Additional services you may need, such as lab tests, close by

We aim to schedule chemotherapy around your busy life as much as possible. Many patients continue with their daily activities and participate in special occasions with loved ones throughout treatment.

At MultiCare, you have access to an array of support services to address the side effects of chemotherapy, including recommendations from nutritionists who specialize in helping people with cancer maintain a healthy weight. You may also benefit from seeing our specially trained audiologists if chemotherapy is affecting your hearing. Find out more about cancer care services.