Patient Education for Gastrointestinal Toxicity in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

This video was supported by Gilead Sciences, Inc., but editorially independently created by the Oncology Nursing News team.

NP Theresa Stukus and NP Nelli Zafman discuss the importance of proactive patient education to support early recognition and management of gastrointestinal toxicities in metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC). Building on the previous clinical scenario, NP Zafman explains how comprehensive education before treatment initiation helps prepare patients to recognize diarrhea as a potential treatment-related adverse event and understand when to begin supportive medications. The faculty emphasize providing patients with antidiarrheal therapy in advance, reviewing appropriate medication use, reinforcing hydration strategies, and establishing clear expectations for when to contact the oncology care team if symptoms persist or worsen. NP Stukus highlights that early intervention can reduce the risk of dehydration, minimize treatment interruptions, and improve overall symptom control. Together, the speakers underscore the central role of oncology nurse practitioners in equipping patients with the knowledge and resources needed to promptly identify adverse events and support safe, continuous treatment for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer.