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Operating Room Nurses & Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

Hyperthermic intraperitioneal chemotherapy is high-dose chemotherapy administered directly to the abdomen according to the University of Maryland Oncology Department. This type of chemotherapy requires special nursing interventions and training as well as added safety precautions.

  1. Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

    • Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is a combination of surgery and chemotherapy used to treat gastrointestinal cancers and sarcomas. Surgery is conducted to remove tumors and the patient is connected to catheters that pump the entire abdominal cavity with chemotherapy drugs for approximately two hours.

    Nursing Considerations

    • Only registered nurses who have documented training and competencies in oncology care and operating room nursing may work with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Nurses are expected to assist the operating physician, educate the patient and family on the use of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, monitor vital signs, and enact all necessary safety precautions.

    Safety Considerations

    • According to the Washington Cancer Institute, nurses involved in hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy are exposed to occupational health risks such as hepatitis, HIV, tuberculosis, hospital infections and low exposure to intraoperative X-rays. Nurses should always use gowns, gloves, masks, and eye protection to prevent contact with contaminated objects. All chemotherapeutic waste needs to be cleaned up and appropriately disposed of in chemotherapy waste boxes. A smoke evacuator should also be used to eliminate vapors and aerosols.

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