folfirinox questions

Hi Judy,

A few links for you –

http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Cancertreatment/Treatmenttypes/Chemotherapy/Combinationregimen/FOLFIRINOX.aspx

http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancers-in-general/treatment/cancer-drugs/folfirinox

Hope they are of use to you Judy and I hope that your treatment is a success as well.

Hugs,

Gavin

I’ve had four infusions with a pump now. I was concerned at first about sleeping, but it turned out to be a non-issue. I can sleep on either side or my back without problems. Just have to be aware when you roll to move the bag with the pump. Biggest issue I had was with a curious kitten who was drawn to the port and wanted to paw and nibble on it and the tubing.

If you have troubles sleeping, use a recliner or a comfortable upright chair, probably getting short naps throughout the day. You will get used to it and then getting back to a bed will be a treat.

After the treatment the nurse gave me the instructions on what to do if there were leaks. Make sure the pump is put in a zip-lock bag before going into the carry bag.

Another very important thing: If there are problems, get to the oncology department if possible. Most ERs have no experience with a pump and port and if they start messing with it, you have a significant chance of getting an infection. If there is a leak of some kind, you can always stop the infusion. For off-hours, you will get an emergency number for the pump company who can help you over the phone. This was the scariest part, but should not be an issue. Make sure you pay attention to the nurse’s instructions on this.

Interesting that the treatment will be over the weekend. They will start the infusion on Saturday and remove the pump on Monday?

Duke