Cabazitaxel for prostate cancer: patient preparation and ongoing care.
Cabazitaxel, a new-generation taxane that fulfils a hitherto unmet need for second-line chemotherapy in metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer, has received approval from the European Medicines Agency. In a recent phase III clinical trial, this drug showed a survival benefit over mitoxantrone; however, it was associated with significant side effects, most notably neutropenia, diarrhoea, nausea/vomiting, peripheral neuropathy and fatigue. Careful patient selection for cabazitaxel is essential, as is a robust management plan for the detection, assessment and prompt treatment of any side effects. This article examines the nurse's role in patient preparation, education, ongoing monitoring and support throughout cabazitaxel treatment.
University Hospitals, Bristol NHS Foundation Trust.
Julia
J
Hardwick
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008991:Monitoring, Physiologic; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D043823:Taxoids / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D043823:Taxoids; C552428:cabazitaxel