Taxol: Women with ovarian cancer participate in a new clinical trial

Abstract

Taxol has been hailed by some as a promising new chemotherapy drug for the treatment of women with ovarian cancer. An international study has been mounted to determine the optimal dose and the optimal infusion duration of Taxol. Nurses on the in-patient chemotherapy unit at the B.C. Cancer Agency, Vancouver Clinic, have been actively involved in caring for women as they receive Taxol. This article offers clinical tips from the Vancouver experience about organizing treatmetn rooms, setting up IVs, administering the drug, monitoring the patient for side effects and dealing with the many difficult questions asked by women involved in this clinical trial.