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Guide for patients and loved ones

Checklist for the first 30 days

The first month brings the most change. This checklist helps you not to forget the important things.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A month calendar
Figure 1.A month calendar — Checklist for the first 30 days

01Short answer

The main checklist for the first 30 days: the full diagnosis name and genetic results are written down; the emergency number is in your phone and by the door; there is a thermometer at home; a document folder and a list of medicines and allergies are ready; the treatment plan and calendar are understood; fertility and vaccines have been discussed; your employer and insurer have been contacted; the home is prepared to reduce infection; tasks are shared among loved ones; a diary of tests and side effects has started; and you know where to get psychological support.

02Simple explanation

A checklist is a memory aid.

Not all in one day; week by week.

03Scientific explanation

The first month is usually the time of induction treatment or of building the plan; infection risk is highest then.

Written plans and checklists improve how well patients remember information.

04What happens in the body?

Week 1

Diagnosis, emergency number, thermometer, folder, medicine and allergy list, the aim of treatment and start date.

Weeks 2–3

Treatment calendar, side-effect diary, papers for work and insurance, preparing the home and sharing family tasks.

A ticked checklist
Figure 2.A ticked checklist — Checklist for the first 30 days

Week 4

Discussing the first results, the plan for the next stage, rest for you and your caregiver, and support options.

An organised desk
Figure 3.An organised desk — Checklist for the first 30 days

05Four weeks

A weekly plan.

Week 1 — Safety and diagnosis.1Week 1Safety and diagnosis.
Week 2 — Documents and calendar.2Week 2Documents and calendar.
Week 3 — Home and family.3Week 3Home and family.
Week 4 — Results and next step.4Week 4Results and next step.
OrderNothing important is forgotten.
CalmA plan reduces worry.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Week 1Diagnosis, emergency number, thermometer, folder, medicine and allergy list, the aim of treatment and start date.
Weeks 2–3Treatment calendar, side-effect diary, papers for work and insurance, preparing the home and sharing family tasks.
Week 4Discussing the first results, the plan for the next stage, rest for you and your caregiver, and support options.

07Key terms

Checklist
A record of tasks.
Induction
The first phase of treatment.
Diary
A record of tests and symptoms.

08Key points

  • Split the list into weeks.
  • Safety comes first.
  • Gather documents in time.
  • Plan rest for yourself.

09Frequently asked questions

What if I cannot do it all?

That is normal; what matters most is safety and emergency contact.

Who should keep the list?

A caregiver or family member can help.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. What if I cannot do it all?

  2. Who should keep the list?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Managing Your Care
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Infection and Neutropenia during Cancer Treatment
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Managing Costs and Medical Information
  4. Cancer Research UK. Coping with cancer
  5. Cancer.Net (ASCO). ASCO Cancer Treatment and Survivorship Care Plans
  6. NCCN. NCCN Guidelines for Patients
  7. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Talking With Family and Friends
  8. NHS. High temperature (fever) in adults
  9. NHS. How to wash your hands
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). When Someone You Love Is Being Treated for Cancer (booklet)
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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