Self-Administered Premedication: Improving Taxane Chemotherapy Treatment

Background: Patients receiving taxane therapy are at risk for hypersensitivity reactions without appropriate premedication management. Patients must understand the importance of taking premedications as prescribed to prevent reactions.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to implement and evaluate a multidisciplinary practice protocol comprised of standardized nursing documentation of premedication regimens, teaching, and patient adherence to at-home premedication in an electronic health record (EHR).

Methods: A new process was developed to provide standardized prescriptions, a personalized instruction sheet for patients and families, and a standardized approach to document adherence and teaching in the EHR. Pre- and post-EHR audits were used twice to evaluate the practice changes.

Findings: The findings of the first audit suggested improvement in all practice changes. After the first audit, reinforcement of the changes occurred within the group and with one-on-one meetings. The goal of 90% adherence was met at the second audit.