Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells to stop or slow cancer from spreading. The Diana J. White Cancer Institute’s ’s specialists recommend the right chemotherapy medication and dosage for your needs.

Our infusion center provides convenient outpatient care in a comfortable setting with tranquil views of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Your care team offers physical, emotional and spiritual support at every step.

How chemotherapy works

Adventist Health Sonora’s cancer specialists may recommend chemotherapy as part of your treatment plan. Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells. It typically works on a systemic level, which means it affects your entire body. (Radiation therapy or surgery usually target specific areas of the body.)

There are more than 100 types of chemotherapy drugs to treat cancer, depending on the location, type and stage of the cancer. We recommend the right medication and dosage for your needs.

When you find out you need chemotherapy, you might feel overwhelmed and nervous about the side effects. Our oncology nurse navigators streamline and explain your treatment journey. We’re here to answer your questions and help you feel as prepared as possible.

The systemic therapy services offered at the Diana J. White Cancer Institute include:

• Hormone therapy
• Infusion center with chemotherapy and non-oncology-related infusion therapy, such as blood product transfusions and immunotherapy

Here’s what you can expect:

• Treatment regimen: You’ll have regular chemotherapy infusion appointments. Then you’ll rest for a few days or weeks to allow the drugs to work in your body.
• During your sessions: You receive an infusion of chemotherapy drugs through a vein in your arm or chest.

Comfortable infusion center: Our infusion center provides convenient outpatient care in a calm, soothing environment with tranquil views of the Sierra foothills. Our comfortable 14-bed unit offers healing to the body, mind and spirit and our low nurse-to patient ration creates opportunity for supportive and encouraging relationships. We are committed to the comprehensive care provided by our onsite team, including oncologists, pharmacists, patient educators, social workers and oncology nurses.

Our nurse educator is available to answer your questions by phone or in person. Our case manager helps to ensure continuity of care and access to all available services. The Institute provides 24-hour call services to answer any after-hours questions.

Help for chemotherapy side effects

Chemotherapy can be effective in fighting cancer, but it can take a physical and emotional toll. These drugs target fast-growing cells, so they can affect healthy parts of your body, too. You might have symptoms such as:

• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sores in your mouth

Our experienced specialists help you prevent and manage the side effects of your treatment. Whether we’re prescribing medication or praying with you during your appointments, we provide physical, emotional and spiritual support throughout your healing process.

We may recommend chemotherapy along with other cancer treatments. Your care plan may also include immunotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery.

For more information, call the Diana J. White Cancer Institute at (209) 536-6940.