A Day in the Life of a Chemotherapy Infusion Nurse

Andrea Rolston, RN, is an infusion nurse at the Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center on Jefferson Highway. One of the joys of the job, she says in this video, is that treatments for cancer -- and patient outcomes -- have advanced and improved. "Patients are surviving things that 20 years ago, weren't so successful.''

Rolston said she likes to arrive for her shift 30 minutes early every day so she can review the charts of the patients assigned to her and get familiar with her cases.

"Over the years, you get to know these people, and they get to know you. You become a part of their life and they become a part of yours.''

Big things are going on at the newly expanded Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center. The addition doubles the size of the Cancer Center, increasing capacity to offer more high-quality cancer services and advanced clinical research making it one of the leading comprehensive destinations for cancer care across a multi-state region.

This new building adds 115,000 square feet over six floors, but the expansion offers more than just extra space. It reinforces Ochsner’s commitment to collaborative, patient-centered care using the latest technology, innovative treatments and a compassionate, holistic approach.

The Cancer Center includes 58 personalized and semi-private patient chemo infusion stations against the beautiful, relaxing backdrop of the Mississippi River, as well as dedicated infusion and clinic spaces for bone marrow transplant patients. The Lieselotte Tansey Breast Center, previously located across Jefferson Highway, has moved to the Benson Cancer Center to further integrate the multidisciplinary treatment approach.