Your immunotherapy
Immunotherapy
Your immunotherapy
I've been told I need immunotherapy - what happens next?
When the decision is made to start immunotherapy, you will be sent an appointment with a chemotherapy/immunotherapy nurse or invited to a group information session. At these appointments we will go through the planned treatment, schedule, and potential side effects. This appointment is important to ensure you have all the information you need before starting your treatment. You will also receive an appointment for your first treatment on our chemotherapy day unit.
Before you start your treatment, you may need additional investigations, such as blood tests, a scan of your heart or a test to see how your lungs are working. If needed, these will all be arranged for you.
Advice and guidance for immunotherapy patients
First treatment
On your first day of treatment, the nurses on the day unit will give you a new patient pack, with further important information. This will include an appointment card. The nursing team will go through the planned treatment and answer any questions you may have. They will then place a cannula (a small needle inserted into the vein). They can also provide anti-sickness medication if this is needed. Then they will begin to administer your immunotherapy. Depending on what immunotherapy you are on, this may take between 30 minutes and a few hours.
Next appointment
When you attend for treatment you will be given another appointment for your next treatment. Always make sure you have another appointment before leaving.
Blood tests
Before each cycle of treatment, you will generally need a blood test and a review by your clinical team. Only once these have taken place will you be authorised for your next cycle of immunotherapy. The blood test can take place at your local hospital or GP practice three to four days before day before your appointment at the cancer centre. If you choose to have a blood test at the cancer centre, please make sure you arrive one-and-a-half hours before your clinic appointment to enable the blood results to be ready for when the doctor sees you. If your latest blood results are not available when you are seen by your doctor, this can lead to delays in prescribing and preparing your treatment.
Your clinical review will usually take place within outpatients 12, in the cancer centre.
End of treatment
When your course of treatment is complete, you will continue to be seen at regular intervals by your clinical team. This will be discussed with you during your clinic appointment.