How do I drink enough water to stay hydrated?
Hydration needs can vary from person to person based on body composition, treatment, activity levels, side effects, and much more. Sweating, fevers, diarrhea or vomiting increase hydration needs. A baseline of 64-80 fluid ounces is usually recommended and this can come from beverages such as water, sports drinks, juice, milk, protein drinks, etc. Also consider […]
My family member doesn’t want to eat, what can I make for them?
It is important to encourage a loved one, instead of pressuring. There may be a variety of reasons someone isn’t interested in eating, including treatment side effects. Sometimes when asked ‘what would you like?’, the question is too large and not specific enough. Try listing a couple of options for them to choose from or […]
Do I need an advance directive?
Like everyone over the age of eighteen, you need a Healthcare Power of Attorney as an absolute minimum. Most people and their families haven’t planned sufficiently for serious illness or incapacity. We tend not to talk to our loved ones about it. And most of us don’t have our wishes spelled out in any formal way. […]
Do I need an advance directive if I’m not going to die from cancer?
Yes. Everyone over the age of eighteen should have a Healthcare Power of Attorney as an absolute minimum. We tend not to talk to our loved ones about our health wishes and we never know when we may become incapacitated.
What is an advance directive?
An advance directive is simply an instruction or set of instructions about how you want to be cared for. It’s intended to represent you and your wishes in the event you become unable to speak for yourself.
Are clinical trials dangerous?
There’s risks and benefits to consider for every medical intervention. The risks of clinical trial participation are outlined very clearly prior to participation. Clinical trials are not without risk, just like standard care.
Are people on clinical trials guinea pigs?
No. Patients on phase II or phase III clinical trials most often receive standard care treatments or newer but established as safe treatments. Such clinical trials are highly regulated and controlled.
Can I participate in a clinical trial without my consent?
No, informed consent is mandatory for clinical trial enrollment and participation.
Can I receive regular treatment while on a clinical trial?
A patient’s care is most times very similar whether on a clinical trial or not and is always supported medically.
Can I stop a clinical trial after I start?
Whether a patient is on a clinical trial or not, they always control their care. Patients have the right to stop any care, at any time, for any reason whether a patient is on a clinical trial or not.
