Throughout the childhood cancer journey, there are many tests and procedures that are necessary to diagnose your problem, treat your cancer and monitor your progress. The more information that you have about a test, including why it is necessary and how it will be performed, the easier it will be for you to prepare for it, and have a sense of control over what is happening.
For any test that is performed, it's important for you to understand:
- Why the test is being done
- What the test will feel like
- What you can do to prepare
- How long it will take
- Who will be doing the test
- What help is available to you before, during, and after the test
- Whether you can have someone with you during the test
- Whether you will receive pain medicine or sedation for the test
The description of each of the tests will also help you understand how the test will be performed, and how to prepare for it.
Deb Shade, RN, CPON, CureSearch, NCCF