What to Expect from Chemotherapy: Side Effects, Home Safety and Care

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What to anticipate from chemotherapy with your pump

This post is intended for patients, caregivers, family members, and support groups.
It answers common questions about chemotherapy, preparation, and safe self-care during and after treatment.

After your infusion is complete, you can usually return home. Your physician will explain what to expect after treatment.
It is completely normal to feel concerned about possible side effects.

Always discuss any worries with your oncology team.

So what can I expect?

Chemotherapy affects people differently. Some patients experience side effects, while others have few or none.
The type and severity of side effects depend on the medication, dosage, and your overall health.

Important: If you are unsure whether a symptom is serious, contact your doctor.

Your healthcare team will continue to provide guidance and support throughout your treatment.

When must I call my physician?

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • Fever of 100.5°F (38°C) or higher
  • Any symptom that concerns you
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Burning pain when urinating
  • Constipation lasting more than 2–3 days
  • Diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
  • Nausea or vomiting preventing eating or drinking
  • Pain not controlled by medication
  • Mouth sores or redness
  • Persistent cough or difficulty breathing

Home Infusion

If you are on continuous home infusion and experience pump problems,
contact the HomeMed® Program immediately.

HomeMed™ Support: 800-862-2731

Safeguards in your home after chemotherapy treatment

Chemotherapy drugs leave the body through urine, stool, vomit, sweat, blood, mucus, and sexual fluids —
usually within 48 hours.

These precautions protect both patients and caregivers.

Area Safety Recommendation
Laundry Wear Nitrile® gloves. Wash contaminated items immediately or double-bag and wash separately.
Body fluids Flush toilet twice with lid closed. Wear gloves when handling waste.
Skin contact Wash exposed skin immediately with soap and water.
Sex & pregnancy Avoid intercourse for 48 hours. Use two forms of contraception.
Caregivers Pregnant or breastfeeding caregivers must wear gloves and gowns.

Handwashing after chemotherapy

Handwashing

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.

  • Before eating or preparing food
  • After using the bathroom
  • After contact with body fluids
  • After touching trash or soil
  • After removing gloves

Alcohol-based hand gels (60–90%) are effective unless hands are visibly soiled.

FAQ — Chemotherapy Safety

Q: How long do chemotherapy drugs stay in the body?
A: Most chemotherapy drugs leave the body within 48 hours.
Q: Can family members use the same bathroom?
A: Yes, but the toilet lid should be closed and flushed twice.
Q: Is special laundry detergent required?
A: No, but contaminated items should be washed separately while wearing gloves.
Source: Michigan Cancer Center — Chemotherapy Safety

Cancer Treatment and What to Expect from Chemotherapy | Cancer Research UK



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