Percutaneous Nephrostomy Infusion: Nursing Considerations for Treatment of Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinoma

An intrarenal approach using a percutaneous nephrostomy tube is a novel method to deliver chemotherapy and biotherapy to patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma. A paucity of evidence exists regarding basic nursing implications for this unique treatment option. This column will provide suggested guidelines to administer intrarenal treatment via a percutanous nephrostomy tube.

AT A GLANCE

• Upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma may be treated using a topical approach, including instillation of chemotherapy/
• biotherapy agents through a percutaneous nephrostomy tube.
• Nursing implications of instillation directly into the renal pelvis and ureter are discussed, including care and safe handling.
• References and resources are provided to guide nurses who seek additional information on this practice.