Chemotherapy & Infusion

As part of your cancer treatment, you’ll work with your cancer care team to develop a plan based on your needs. Depending on your diagnosis, your care plan may include some form of chemotherapy given to you before, after or at the same time as other types of therapy. “Chemo” uses a mixture of medications or drugs, which you may receive as a pill or through a process called infusion that uses a vein or port in your arm.

Individualized Cancer Care in a Positive Environment

Ask your doctor for a referral OU Health so you can take advantage of the oncology experts at Stephenson Cancer Center, home to the largest chemotherapy and infusion center in Oklahoma. You benefit from working with Stephenson’s certified chemotherapy professionals and oncology-trained nurses who provide compassionate, therapeutic care in a pleasant, comfortable and welcoming environment.

You may receive chemotherapy in one of our 45 spaces, set up in private, semi-private and open areas. Your specially trained nurse sits close to you and carefully monitors your medication and care at all times. At Stephenson Cancer Center, your infusion team also provides advanced levels of care to support your particular needs.

Your Safety Comes First

Your safety takes top priority throughout the chemotherapy process. That means your infusion team makes several safety checks even before starting to deliver medications. They review your medical records, lab results and specific instructions from your treatment team to ensure optimal outcomes.

Nurses on your infusion team also recognize the value of your time and will provide regular updates about the estimated length of your treatment session.

Amenities for Your Comfort

Because chemotherapy treatments can take several hours, you’ll appreciate the infusion center amenities designed for your comfort, including:

• Kitchenette with microwave for you to fix your own snacks and beverages
• Complimentary beverages and light refreshments
• Complimentary lunch served by volunteers between 11 a.m. and noon
• Complimentary Wi-Fi for you to connect to laptops, tablets or online services
• Warm and cozy blankets

Safety Precautions for Caregivers & Children

For everyone’s safety, check with your chemotherapy/infusion team for information about whether a caregiver may accompany you to your treatment. Children under 12 may not stay with you during the treatment process. Find out more about your visit and OU Health safety precautions during the coronavirus pandemic.

Explore Chemotherapy at Stephenson Cancer Center

Although our twice-weekly in-person Chemo 101 classes at Stephenson Cancer Center have been canceled for now, due to the coronavirus pandemic, you and your loved ones can still get the Chemo 101 information you need. Simply download and review our Preparing for Chemotherapy booklet [pdf]. You’ll find a pre-appointment checklist, information about how to prepare and what to expect during your first chemotherapy appointment, as well as answers to frequently asked questions about chemotherapy and infusion, such as:

• What to wear
• What you can eat
• Whether to take your regular medications
• How long treatments may take
• Missed appointments and holidays
• Transportation and weather-related issues
• Who to contact with medical questions and concerns
• Activities to keep you occupied during treatment time
• Loved ones and childcare during treatment
• Information for caregivers
• Financial counseling and assistance for your treatment
• Supportive care or social work services to connect you with helpful resources

Or attend an online version of the class by watching the Chemo 101 video [17:59], below, at your convenience. You and your caregivers can learn more about what to expect during chemotherapy, along with guidelines to help you maintain good nutrition and healthy behaviors, and tips for managing side effects.

Your Chemotherapy & Infusion Care Team

Your experienced chemotherapy and infusion team at Stephenson Cancer Center involves dozens of highly trained professionals, including oncologists, physicians, advanced practice providers, oncology pharmacists, chemotherapy and infusion nurses, and financial navigators, as well as dietitians, nutritionists and supportive care specialists who focus on your individual needs throughout your cancer journey.