Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Granisetron Hydrochloride, 100 mcg (J1626)

Summary

Granisetron Hydrochloride injection is a medical procedure in which a specific anti-nausea medication is administered via injection. This medication is particularly effective at preventing nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery.

Purpose

Granisetron Hydrochloride is used to prevent and alleviate nausea and vomiting, commonly associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and postoperative recovery. The goal is to improve the patient's comfort and quality of life during these treatments by reducing the frequency and severity of these symptoms.

Indications

• Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy
• Postoperative nausea and vomiting
• Individuals with severe nausea unresponsive to other treatments
• Criteria: Prescribed for patients who have a known history of severe nausea and vomiting with similar treatments

Preparation

• No specific fasting required unless otherwise instructed by the healthcare provider.
• Inform the healthcare provider of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Diagnostic tests: Basic blood tests to check for any abnormalities and overall health status.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider will clean the injection site, typically the deltoid muscle of the arm.
2. The required dose of Granisetron Hydrochloride (100 mcg) is drawn into a sterile syringe.
3. The medication is carefully injected into the muscle.
4. The site is cleaned again, and a bandage may be applied.

Tools/Equipment: Sterile syringe, Granisetron Hydrochloride vial, antiseptic swabs, bandage.

Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically not required for this injection.

Duration

The injection procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes.

Setting

The injection is usually administered in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or doctor's office.

Personnel

• Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to administer the injection
• On-site physician or healthcare provider overseeing the procedure

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild pain or redness at the injection site
• Headache
• Constipation or diarrhea

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions
• Dizziness
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms

Benefits

• Effective in preventing and controlling nausea and vomiting
• Rapid onset of action, providing quick relief
• Can improve the patient's ability to adhere to cancer treatments and recovery protocols

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes monitoring for any adverse reactions for a short period.
• Minimal recovery time needed.
• Patients are generally advised to continue normal activities shortly after the injection.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the effectiveness and adjust dosage if necessary.

Alternatives

• Oral anti-nausea medications such as ondansetron or metoclopramide
• Other injectable antiemetics like ondansetron or dolasetron
• Non-pharmacological approaches: Dietary adjustments and acupuncture

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral Medications: Easier administration but slower onset and potential for gastrointestinal upset.
• Other Injectables: Similar efficacy but may have different side effect profiles.
• Non-pharmacological: No side effects but generally less effective for severe symptoms.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may experience a brief sting or discomfort at the injection site. After the procedure, mild soreness at the injection site may occur, which usually resolves within a few hours. Overall, most patients tolerate the procedure well and experience significant relief from nausea and vomiting. Pain management typically involves simple analgesics like acetaminophen if needed.