What is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is a type of
cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, usually while doing little damage to normal cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which attacks all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy focuses on specific molecular targets that are associated with cancer.
How Does Targeted Therapy Work?
Targeted therapies interfere with specific proteins that help tumors grow and spread. They can work by blocking the action of certain enzymes, proteins, or other molecules involved in the cancer's growth and spread. Some targeted therapies help the immune system destroy cancer cells, while others deliver toxic substances directly to them.
Types of Targeted Therapy
There are several types of targeted therapy, including
monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made molecules that can attach to specific targets on cancer cells, while small molecule inhibitors block the enzymes and growth factors that cancer cells need to grow. Immune checkpoint inhibitors help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Role of Nurses in Targeted Therapy
Nurses play a critical role in the administration and management of targeted therapy. They are responsible for educating patients about their treatment, managing side effects, and monitoring patients for adverse reactions. Nurses also provide emotional support and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals.Patient Education
One of the key responsibilities of nurses is to provide
patient education. Patients need to understand how targeted therapy works, what to expect during treatment, and how to manage potential side effects. Nurses should explain the importance of adhering to the treatment schedule and attending follow-up appointments.
Managing Side Effects
Although targeted therapies tend to have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy, they are not without risks. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, liver problems, and skin issues. Nurses must monitor patients for these side effects and provide interventions to manage them. This may include medication, lifestyle changes, or referrals to other healthcare providers.Monitoring and Follow-Up
Continuous monitoring is essential for patients undergoing targeted therapy. Nurses must regularly check vital signs, perform physical assessments, and review lab results to ensure the treatment is working and to detect any complications early. Follow-up care is crucial to address any long-term side effects and to monitor for cancer recurrence.Emotional Support
Receiving a cancer diagnosis and undergoing treatment can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Nurses provide emotional support by listening to patients' concerns, offering encouragement, and connecting them with support groups and mental health resources.Coordination of Care
Nurses often act as the primary point of contact for patients, coordinating care between different members of the healthcare team, including oncologists, pharmacists, and social workers. This ensures that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of their treatment and well-being.Conclusion
Targeted therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment, offering a more precise approach to attacking cancer cells while sparing normal tissue. Nurses play an indispensable role in the administration, monitoring, and support of patients undergoing targeted therapy. Through patient education, side effect management, and emotional support, nurses ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care throughout their treatment journey.
