Cancer Care Plan

After a cancer diagnosis, you and your family may have many decisions to make quickly. We are here to guide and support you in making the choices that feel right for you and your loved ones.

Here is a guideline to learn about treatment options, make a personalized plan for care that fits your values and goals, and find ways to manage symptoms for the best possible quality of life.

Available Treatment Options

In discussing your goals, you and your care team will together determine the best treatment plan for you.

  • Surgery
  • Radiation Therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy

 

Your treatment options will be tailored to:

  • Type of cancer
  • Stage of cancer
  • Other tests and details about your cancer type: biomarkers, blood tests, imaging, genetic testing
  • Your overall health and past medical history
  • Your goals, preferences, and values

How Will Treatment Affect My Daily Life? Side Effects

Fighting cancer can be hard on your body and mind. We are here to walk alongside you and understand the impacts and ways to support in the ways that matter most to you.

Temperature (fever):

  • While in treatment, we watch carefully for signs of infection, like fever or low white blood cells. At home, check your temperature daily, avoid large crowds or sick people, and practice good hand washing and hygiene.
  • If you have a temperature of 100°F/38 °C, shaking, chills, or sweating, come to urgent care/emergency room or call 911 and contact your provider.

Anemia or bleeding:

  • While in treatment, we monitor your blood levels (platelets) and watch for bleeding.
  • If you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising, tell your nurse or provider immediately.

Fatigue (feeling tired) or body discomfort:

  • Rest between activities and continue daily activities as much as you can to bring back your energy. Continue to walk or perform moderate exercise daily as much as you are able.

Numbness and tingling in your hands and feet:

  • Tell your provider if you start to notice this to learn ways to manage. Talk to your friends and family about ways to help you with your daily activities.

Mouth sores:

  • Keep your mouth clean, and brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush
  • Rinse your mouth after each meal, but do not rinse with alcohol-based mouthwash

Change in appetite or taste:

  • Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day
  • Take anti-nausea medications as ordered by your provider.
  • Drink fluids and avoid caffeinated drinks
  • Maintain a well-balanced diet with fruits and vegetables
  • You can try drinking milkshakes, smoothies, soups, or juices if solid foods become difficult

Nausea, vomiting (upset stomach, throwing up):

  • Antinausea medication as ordered by your provider
  • Tell your provider if you experience 4 to 6 episodes of vomiting or if you are not able to drink fluids within a 24-hour period

Diarrhea (loose stool) or constipation:

  • Tell your provider of any changes and if you can not pass gas
  • Keep a list of when you have bowel movements so it can be easier to share with your provider

Skin Changes or Sensitivities:

  • Avoid direct sunlight by protecting your skin with clothing or hats
  • Keep your skin hydrated with thick, softening creams. Use hypoallergenic products to avoid irritation.

Hair Changes (thinning or loss):

  • Talk to your care team for resources and information
  • Hair changes usually occur within the third week of some treatments. Your hair will grow back approximately one to three months after you finish treatment.
  • Protect your scalp from the sun or cold. Use sunscreen and wear hats/scarves when outside.

Sexual Function and Fertility:

  • Your treatment does not always affect sexual organs and functions. Side effects depend on the medication.
  • Ask your provider and care team if you have questions or experience changes

Anonymous, 54 years old

“I received my first treatment recently and have gotten so much support. The team is managing my care quickly and hearing me when I feel a change in symptoms or need more support. It was such a hard start, but I am feeling stronger than before and hopeful as I go to my next treatments.”

Cancer Care Plan Resources

Helpful information as you develop your care plan.