Antiemetic therapy in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To examine the currently available antiemetic medications and review their uses in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (NV). DATA SOURCES Published articles and book chapters. DATA SYNTHESIS NV is a common yet potentially serious side effect of chemotherapy. Nurses must understand the physiology of NV, its impact on patients, and the proper use of antiemetic medications to effectively manage this problem. Antiemetic medications vary in mechanism of action, indications for use, and adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS Nurses are in a position to identify patients who are at risk for NV and to manage their care using accepted practice guidelines. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Although practice guidelines have been established, the nurse's role in assessment and implementation of care is critical in the prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced NV.