First Week
During the first week of hospitalization, you will receive chemotherapy agents that have been specifically prescribed for you. Most chemotherapy agents are administered for several days, along with medications to prevent nausea. The type of chemotherapy you receive depends on your disease, and may be administered orally or through a vein (intravenously).
Blood counts begin to drop a few days to a week after the initiation of chemotherapy. Once your neutrophil count (referred to as ANC) is less than 1,000, you will be placed in “protective isolation”, or on “neutropenic precautions”. Although family members and friends are allowed to visit you in the ASCT unit, we have several guidelines that must be followed. If visitors are also required to wear special apparel, a sign will be posted on the door, and the nurse will be available for assistance.
Stem Cell Reinfusion
Stem cells are infused through your central intravenous catheter one or two days after chemotherapy is completed. The day is referred to as "Day 0". The infusion lasts 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the volume of stem cells infused. During this process, your blood pressure, heart rate, temperature and respiration will be monitored while a physician and nurse are present.
Second and Third Weeks
During this time, the blood counts are low and patients require transfusions of red blood cells and platelets, antibiotics and a medication to promote white blood cell growth. Usually white blood cells and platelets begin to recover 10 to 12 days after stem cell reinfusion.
Discharge from the Hospital
Hospitalization typically lasts about three weeks. Of course, there are patients who will be released sooner than 21 days, while others will require a longer hospitalization. Following discharge, you will return to the Hematology Clinic to be examined by a physician and to have blood tests performed.
