Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Guidelines and Recommendations for Practice (3rd ed.)

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Preface

The Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Guidelines and Recommendations for Practice is now in its third edition. Since its first chemotherapy-related publication in 1984, ONS has provided leadership in this important area of oncology nursing practice. The goal of the publication has always been competent oncology nursing practice, which promotes patient safety. After 25 years, these guidelines have formed the foundation for the delivery of quality cancer care. While ONS is not a regulatory agency and, therefore, does not decide what treatments may be considered “standard of care,” ONS provides the information contained in these guidelines based on evidence and research. Each institution or practice needs to make its own decision on whether to add a medication to its formulary based on the information that is available.

Because cancer treatment has changed since publication of the 2005 edition, the authors and editors have provided new and updated information to reflect those advances. The content related to targeted therapies and oral therapies has been expanded. Information on the management of skin, pulmonary, and cardiac toxicity has been updated accordingly. A chapter on treatment-related cognitive changes has been added. New tables and figures are included, and previous tables have been updated to provide information on newly approved drugs and care of the patients who receive them.

ONS gratefully acknowledges the authors and editors who have contributed to previous editions of this manual as well as the editors and authors of the material presented in this edition. The content has undergone an extensive peer review by both external reviewers and trainers for the ONS Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Course. Thanks to all who have participated in the preparation of this publication.