Medical Nurses and the Evolution of Home-Based Chemotherapy Management

Abstract

The shift toward home-based chemotherapy represents a transformative development in oncology care, offering enhanced patient convenience, reduced healthcare costs, and a more personalized treatment experience. With advancements in technology, such as portable infusion devices and telemedicine platforms, chemotherapy that was once confined to hospital or clinic settings can now be safely administered in the comfort of patients' homes. However, this paradigm shift also introduces a range of clinical, operational, and ethical challenges that demand innovative approaches and robust support systems. Medical nurses are at the forefront of this transition, playing a critical role in the implementation and management of home-based chemotherapy programs. Their responsibilities encompass patient education, safe administration of chemotherapy drugs, close monitoring for adverse effects, and providing emotional and psychosocial support. This article explores the evolution of home-based chemotherapy, detailing the historical progression, benefits, and key models of care. It emphasizes the integral role of nurses in mitigating risks, addressing disparities in access, and ensuring ethical and equitable delivery of care. Ethical considerations, including patient autonomy, privacy, and risk management, are discussed, alongside institutional frameworks that support nursing interventions. Case studies illustrate practical applications and challenges, offering insights into the real-world implementation of home-based chemotherapy programs. Finally, the article addresses the future directions of this model, advocating for enhanced training, policy development, and nurse leadership in oncology care.

Keywords

• Home-Based Chemotherapy, Oncology Nursing, Patient-Centered Care, Chemotherapy Administration, Cytotoxic Drugs, Telemedicine, Wearable Health Monitoring, Patient Education, Caregiver Training, Medication Adherence, Risk Management, Cancer Treatment, Remote Monitoring, Symptom Management, Portable Infusion Devices, Emotional Support, Ethical Considerations, Legal Challenges, Equity in Healthcare, Digital Health Tools, Palliative Care, Nursing Leadership, Multidisciplinary Collaboration, Technology in Oncology, Quality Assurance, Treatment Side Effects, Advocacy in Oncology, Personalized Medicine, Nurse-Led Care Models, Healthcare Policy Development.