WHAT TO EXPECT

Treatment plans are custom made specifically for each patient. Learn about the process and ask questions so that you may better familiarize yourself with your treatment process. At Christus St. Vincent’s Regional Cancer Center, you can have one friend/support person with you for office visits, but only patients are allowed to be in the treatment rooms during the pandemic.

What to expect with radiation:

• You will meet with your medical team to plan your treatments.

• You will have a specialized CT scan that allows providers to design

a custom radiation plan.

• Plan to spend at least an hour for your first treatment and 20 to 30

minutes for the rest.

• To protect normal tissues, you will receive treatments in a series of

small doses.

• Prior to treatment, patients are in a co-ed waiting room without

guests (Caregivers of patients who need assistance are allowed.)

• You will see your radiation oncologist at least once weekly.

• You cannot feel radiation while it is being given.

• The side effects of radiation are cumulative. You will not feel ill

after treatment.

What to expect with chemotherapy:

• You may receive chemotherapy through a pill or intravenously.

• You can sleep, read, play games, write, use your laptop or do quiet

activities that help you relax.

• An oncology nurse will administer your treatment and discuss any

questions or concerns you may have.

• Sessions can last anywhere from one to eight hours, depending on the

treatment. The first one may be longer.

• Christus St. Vincent Regional Cancer Center provides pillows, blankets, wi-fi and snacks for those receiving treatment and their families.