Do You Need to Check Blood Return During Chemotherapy Infusions? - Oncology

More Info

---

When undergoing chemotherapy infusions, it is indeed crucial to monitor the blood return, also known as blood return verification, before and during the infusion process. This practice is essential for several reasons, primarily to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Understanding Blood Return Verification:
Blood return verification is the process where healthcare providers check for the return of blood from the intravenous (IV) line back into the syringe or IV bag. This step is critical because it confirms that the IV line is correctly positioned in the vein and that there are no blockages or complications, such as infiltration (when the IV fluid leaks into the surrounding tissue) or extravasation (when the chemotherapy drug leaks into surrounding tissue, potentially causing damage).

Why Check Blood Return Before Infusion:
1. Confirming IV Patency: Before administering chemotherapy, it is vital to ensure that the IV line is patent (open and unobstructed). If the line is not patent, the chemotherapy may not be delivered effectively, which could lead to inadequate treatment.

2. Preventing Complications: Checking for blood return helps prevent complications associated with chemotherapy administration. If there is no blood return, it may indicate that the catheter is not in the correct position, which could lead to serious complications if chemotherapy is administered.

3. Patient Safety: Ensuring that the IV line is functioning correctly before starting the infusion is a critical safety measure. It helps protect the patient from potential adverse effects that could arise from improper administration of chemotherapy.

Should Blood Return Be Checked During Infusion?
While the primary checks are typically done before the infusion, it is also advisable to monitor the IV line during the infusion process. Here are some reasons why:
1. Monitoring for Complications: During the infusion, healthcare providers should observe for any signs of complications, such as swelling, redness, or pain at the infusion site. If any of these symptoms occur, checking for blood return can help determine if the IV line is still functioning correctly.

2. Adjusting Infusion Rates: If there are any changes in the flow rate of the chemotherapy infusion, checking for blood return can help assess whether the IV line is still patent. If the flow rate decreases unexpectedly, it may indicate a blockage or other issue.

3. Ensuring Effective Delivery: Continuous monitoring during the infusion can help ensure that the chemotherapy is being delivered effectively and that the patient is tolerating the treatment well.

Conclusion:
In summary, while the initial blood return verification is essential before starting chemotherapy, ongoing monitoring during the infusion is also important. This practice helps ensure patient safety, effective treatment delivery, and the early detection of any potential complications. Nurses and healthcare providers are trained to recognize the signs of complications and will take appropriate action if any issues arise during the infusion process. If you have any concerns or questions about your chemotherapy treatment, it is always best to discuss them with your healthcare team, who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.