ABSTRACT
Preparing the patient is important to be positive, as many side effects are temporary or can be effectively treated. The start of chemotherapy may be the first time a patient has had to face the reality of their condition. The chapter presents the four points need to be remembered: The differences between tumour cells and normal cells are small, so the balance between response and toxicity needs to be carefully considered; side effects depend on the drug and dose used; effective treatments keep side effects to a minimum–they are much less when the intention is palliation and some side effects are uncommon. Treating side effects: this may involve us in: giving drugs to stop any nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea; ensuring the patient receives sufficient fluids and keeping the mouth clean and moist, or treating a sore mouth.
