Carol Blecher Discusses Ways to Improve a Patient's Adherence to Oral Cancer Medications

Carol Blecher, RN, MS, AOCN, APNC, CBPN-C, CBCN, an advanced practice nurse and clinical educator at the Trinitas Regional Medical Center/Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center in Elizabeth, New Jersey, gives advice on how to improve a patient’s adherence to oral cancer medications.

Blecher says nurses must spend time educating the patient about how to take the drug. Some patient’s at Blecher’s also receive a calendar to help keep them accountable when taking the medication. During the first couple months that a patient is on therapy, Blecher says she likes to see her patients at least once a week to make sure that side effects are being picked up early.

Blecher says she also educates patients about safe handling in the home. It is important to have chemotherapy gloves in the home for anyone who will be assisting the patient with their medication. It is also important for everyone who comes in contact with the drug to wash their hands, Blecher says.