Chemotherapy Basics

Chemotherapy exploits a vulnerability of many cancer cells: they divide rapidly and repeatedly. The drugs that interrupt DNA replication or cell division cannot perfectly distinguish malignant cells from healthy tissues with the same turnover rate. That shared biology explains why bone marrow suppression, mucositis, alopecia, nausea, and organ-specific toxicities occur alongside the intended antitumor effect. For an LVN/LPN, the clinical priorities are timing, surveillance, and rapid escalation. Blood counts often reach their lowest point 7–14 days after a dose, and a qualifying fever during neutropenia may be the first sign of a life-threatening infection. The nurse also protects tissue during vesicant administration, prevents hazardous-drug exposure, and follows the prescribed laboratory, hydration, antiemetic, and growth-factor plan within state law, facility policy, and the supervising RN or authorized prescriber's direction.