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Introduction to Chemotherapy

This information is intended for the patients, friends and families of the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center.

It has been created to answer many of the questions you may have about your treatment, how to prepare and what it will be like. It also contains suggestions about caring for yourself during treatment. If you are not a U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center patient, much of this information will not apply to you.

8 Must Know Facts

These are the facts that are most important for your infusion preparation.

1. Plan to spend most of the day in the center for your first visit.

2. You must have a driver for your first chemotherapy visit.

3. Only one adult visitor is allowed with you in the infusion area.

4. No children are allowed in the area.

5. Eat lightly...Do not skip meals prior to your infusion.

6. See a dentist before you begin chemotherapy.

7. Try a stress reducing activity before chemotherapy, plan to continue this activity throughout your cancer treatment.

8. Be safe. Wear sensible shoes and loose, comfortable clothing.

What to Expect from Chemotherapy is your main resource for information about chemotherapy treatment at the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center, managing its side effects and understanding how to prevent them. It is very important to use this book as a resource throughout your chemotherapy treatment course. Copies of this booklet and other educational materials can be found at the Patient Education Resource Center (called the "PERC") on level B1 of the Cancer Center, or print it now [PDF].

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Speak with a Cancer nurse: 1-800-865-1125
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If you are a Cancer Center patient:
Print our What to Expect: A Guide to Outpatient Cancer Infusion Therapy at the University of Michigan - opens as a .pdf document