Antiemetic Guidelines: Using Education to Improve Adherence and Reduce Incidence of CINV in Patients Receiving Highly Emetogenic Chemotherapy

Background: With the development of increasingly effective antiemetic regimens, guideline adherence can prevent 70%–80% of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in patients with cancer.

Objectives: This quality improvement project aims to increase rates of adherence to national guidelines and, ultimately, decrease rates of CINV experienced by patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy.

Methods: A retrospective chart analysis was performed. In-person education was provided to staff nurses and advanced practice providers on guidelines, followed by a survey immediately postintervention and again at three months.

Findings: Prior to the intervention, 49% of patients were found to experience CINV, with only 7% receiving guideline-appropriate prophylaxis. At three months, 37% of patients experienced CINV, with 22% receiving appropriate prophylaxis.