Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Tamoxifen as follows:
- While using tamoxifen for control of breast cancer, observe compliance with instructions regarding self-examining the breast. Palpate the breast at least once a month, using both the palm of the hand and the finger tips, starting at the nipple and moving in larger circles to the outer edge of the breast. This helps identify any increase in the size of the tumor or growth of any new masses in the breast tissue, which is a common side-effect in the early stages of starting on tamoxifen.
- While taking tamoxifen for control of tumor growth, notify your physician and other health care personnel immediately regarding any increase in the size of the tumor, growth of new masses in the breast tissue, exacerbation of pain, worsening lymphedema and swelling and seek their opinion on a possible change in the dose or plan of care.
- Observe compliance with regular physician visits, uterine studies, and mammograms ordered, for a better understanding of the response to tamoxifen intake. Observe compliance with periodical labs ordered for liver function, blood lipids, risk for clotting, and tumor markers.
- If you miss a dose, try taking it at the earliest notice of noncompliance. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the dose scheduled. Do not take an extra dose to try making up for the missed dose. Notify your doctor and other health care personnel regarding your dose noncompliance.
