What is a common premedication approach before chemotherapy administration?

Ordering and administering medications to avert hypersensitivity reactions (HSR) is a common premedication approach before chemotherapy administration. This practice is important because certain chemotherapy agents, particularly those that are plant-based or monoclonal antibodies, can provoke hypersensitivity reactions in some patients. To mitigate the risk of these adverse events, healthcare providers typically use medications such as corticosteroids, antihistamines, and sometimes acetaminophen as premedication. This proactive approach helps ensure patient safety and comfort during the chemotherapy process.

The other choices, while they may have their own considerations in the overall treatment plan, do not specifically address the need for premedication aimed at preventing hypersensitivity reactions. For example, administering narcotics for pain management is not a standard premedication procedure and is instead used for managing pain during or after treatment. Ensuring patient hydration is crucial, but it does not specifically relate to preventing immediate adverse effects associated with chemotherapy. Instructing patients to fast prior to administration is not a typical requirement for chemotherapy and does not focus on mitigating specific risks associated with the treatment.