Critical Care Antineoplastic Infusions: Safety and Practice Essentials

Oncology care is rapidly evolving due to the continual emergence of new treatment. Despite the shift toward outpatient cancer care, many patients still need inpatient hospitalization for antineoplastic infusion therapies because of a variety of factors. Acute and critical care nurses may be responsible for administering complex intravenous therapies to treat cancer. This task requires careful attention to both patient and nurse safety. Nurses must be knowledgeable about hazardous drug handling, safe medication delivery, prompt recognition and management of adverse effects, and the unique challenges of infusion therapy in critically ill patients. This article outlines key nursing practice considerations and best practices for the administration of oncology infusions in critical care settings, emphasizing strategies to optimize patient outcomes and minimize risks associated with infusion therapy.