Hospital Helpers
Find tips for coping with hospitalization and situations that arise when in the hospital.
Blood Products and Transfusions
This section contains articles about blood products and transfusions that can be used during treatment of cancer.
Tips for Being in the Hospital
Being in the hospital can be stressful physically, emotionally and financially. Here are some tips to get you through your hospital stay.
What to Expect in the Intensive Care Unit
Oncology patients may need the care of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and this unfamiliar environment can cause a great deal of stress for the oncology patient and/or family.
Standard Precautions
Standard Precautions are the basic steps used to stop the spread of pathogens (organisms that can cause disease).
Hand Hygiene (Hand Washing)
Practicing proper hand hygiene is one of the most important practices to prevent infections.
Lumbar Puncture
A lumbar puncture (LP), also known as a spinal tap, is a procedure used to access the cerebrospinal space to either obtain spinal fluid for testing or to infuse medication.
Ommaya Reservoir
An ommaya reservoir is a surgically implanted device that provides direct access to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
Thoracentesis
A thoracentesis is a procedure that removes fluid from the pleural space.
Central Lines and Care
Central lines are often used when a patient needs chemotherapy, intravenous nutrition and frequent lab draws. There are many types and specific ways to care for them.
Oncologic Emergencies
An oncologic emergency is an acute health problem caused by the cancer or its treatment and requires immediate treatment.