Chemotherapy Safety and Precautions for Patients and Caregivers | Lymphatic Drainage Insights

Suzan D. Walker LMT 104331
Oct 30
4 min read

Hands wearing blue gloves, adjusting them snugly. Neutral gray background; focus on hygiene and preparation. — Massage therapists should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with chemotherapy and radiation clients.

Chemotherapy can affect every aspect of life, from physical health to daily routines at home. Understanding the precautions needed to maintain a clean and safe environment is essential for both patients and caregivers. As a lymphatic drainage therapist who formerly worked with chemotherapy patients, I want to share some important guidance.

If you are undergoing chemotherapy, it is very important to follow your doctor’s directions exactly as given. Every treatment plan is different and designed for your specific medical needs. What you do at home plays a big role in your safety, comfort, and overall healing.

Home and Hygiene Precautions

Cleanliness is a vital part of chemotherapy care. Chemotherapy drugs can sometimes leave traces in bodily fluids, and patients are more vulnerable to infections because their immune systems are weakened. The environment around them must be kept clean and disinfected at all times.

Use bleach or a good disinfectant cleaner on all bathroom surfaces, especially the toilet, sink, and shower. Make sure to flush the toilet twice each time after use and, if possible, the patient should have their own bathroom. If a separate bathroom is not available, cleaning the bathroom thoroughly after each and every use is highly recommended to prevent cross-contamination. Use bleach wipes or a disinfectant solution on doorknobs, handles, light switches, faucets, and any frequently touched areas. This is essential to reduce the spread of bacteria and drug residue.

Wash sheets, towels, and clothing regularly, especially if they are soiled. Use warm or hot water and detergent. Handle soiled laundry with disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Keeping the home as clean as possible helps protect the patient and those living with them.

Precautions for Massage Therapists

For massage therapists, lymphatic drainage therapists, and anyone providing hands-on care, it is extremely important to take protective measures when working with clients who are undergoing chemotherapy.

Massage therapists should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and a mask when working with chemotherapy and radiation clients. This protects the therapist from potential exposure and also protects the client, whose immune system may be very compromised.

Gloves should be six millimeters thick, non-latex nitrile gloves. For extra safety they should be double gloved. Nitrile gloves are highly durable and provide excellent protection while minimizing the risk of latex allergies.

All masks and gloves must be disposed of properly after each use. If you are unfamiliar with how to remove masks and gloves safely, there are reliable training videos available on YouTube that demonstrate proper mask and glove removal and disposal techniques. Before becoming a massage therapist, I had a healthcare background and was trained in glove use and infection control, so I know firsthand how important proper glove technique is in a clinical or therapeutic environment.

All linens should be replaced, equipment cleaned and disinfected, and the room sanitized between clients. Avoid working directly over ports, open wounds, or areas of recent radiation. Always check with the client’s oncologist or healthcare provider before beginning a session if there are any concerns. The type of pressure, techniques, and duration may need to be adjusted based on the individual’s health and treatment schedule.

Note on Cleaning Safety

When using bleach, mix one cup of bleach per gallon of water for effective disinfection. Always wear gloves when cleaning and ensure the area is well-ventilated to avoid breathing in strong fumes. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners, as this can produce harmful gases. Safety begins with awareness and consistency.

Supporting the Process

Chemotherapy affects every part of life, not only physically but emotionally and energetically as well. A clean environment, healthy food choices, adequate rest, and emotional support all make a difference. For clients who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, it is best to seek care from a massage therapist trained in oncology massage and lymphatic drainage to ensure safety and proper technique.

Although I no longer work directly with clients who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, I still work with cancer patients who choose a more holistic approach to their healing. If you are currently receiving chemotherapy or radiation treatments, I am more than happy to refer you to a qualified oncology massage and lymphatic drainage therapist in your area.

Healing requires awareness, understanding, and respect for what the body is going through. Proper hygiene, protective measures, and professional guidance all play a role in supporting that process safely.

With care and support,

Suzan (Susan) Walker LMT

Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician for further treatment.

References (for further reading):

“Basic Infection Control and Prevention Plan for Outpatient Oncology Settings,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (cdc.gov)
“Update on Infection Control Practices in Cancer Hospitals” (PMC/NCBI) (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
“Home Safety for Patients Receiving Anti-Cancer Medications” (oncolink.org)
“Massage and Chemotherapy: Personal Protective Equipment and Considerations” (massagepassport.wordpress.com)
“Massage Therapy: Safety and Medical Gloves” (integrativehealthcare.org)