What information is crucial to provide patients before starting immunotherapy?

Before starting immunotherapy, it is essential to inform patients about potential side effects and the importance of reporting adverse reactions. Immunotherapy can elicit immune-related side effects that might not be present in traditional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. These side effects may impact various organs and systems, and their severity can vary widely among patients.

Educating patients about the possible adverse effects enables them to recognize symptoms early and seek timely medical advice, which can mitigate complications and enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. It empowers patients to actively participate in their care, fostering an environment of communication and continuous assessment. This proactive approach is crucial in oncology nursing, as it helps ensure patient safety and optimizes treatment outcomes.

While discussing the cost of treatment, dietary recommendations, and exercise guidelines can be beneficial in the overall care plan, they do not directly focus on the unique aspect of immunotherapy—namely, the immune-related side effects and the need for vigilant monitoring and reporting. Thus, the emphasis on side effects and adverse reactions is the most critical information to convey prior to initiating immunotherapy.