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Our 24/7 cancer helpline provides information and answers for people dealing with cancer. We can connect you with trained cancer information specialists who will answer questions about a cancer diagnosis and provide guidance and a compassionate ear.
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Our highly trained specialists are available 24/7 via phone and on weekdays can assist through online chat. We connect patients, caregivers, and family members with essential services and resources at every step of their cancer journey. Ask us how you can get involved and support the fight against cancer. Some of the topics we can assist with include:
For medical questions, we encourage you to review our information with your doctor.
Tubes and/or drains might be used during or after cancer treatment. Not everyone will need one, but if you do, knowing what they are, why they’re used, and how to care for them is very important.
Tubes are flexible, hollow devices that can be used to deliver fluids, medicines, and gases. They can be made of plastic, silicone, or some other material. Some types of tubes – called drains – can be used to remove body fluids. Some common uses of tubes and drains in cancer treatment are:
If you need oxygen because your blood levels are low, it can be given through a tube placed under your nose (called a nasal cannula) or a mask that goes over the mouth and nose. Tubing connects the cannula or mask to an oxygen tank or oxygen concentrator. This can be done in the hospital, clinic, or at home. Ask your cancer care team if you need oxygen equipment that you can travel with.
It’s important to follow the oxygen safety instructions given by your cancer care team. Make sure you know how to care for the tank and other equipment.
Never let anyone smoke or use fire, including candles and gas stoves, in areas where oxygen is being used. This can lead to an explosive fire.
Liquid nourishment (food or feedings) or medicine can be given through a tube placed in the stomach or the small intestine (bowel). They are often called tube feedings. This can be helpful if you can’t swallow, eat, or drink.
If you are going home with tubes or other equipment, your cancer care team will teach you how to care for them and what problems to watch for. Make sure you know what supplies you will need and how to get them.
Tubes (also called drains) may be used to remove extra fluids from the body after surgery or a procedure. They may also be used to remove fluids caused by the cancer itself, especially in advanced cancers.
Tubes and drains used in cancer treatment may be placed:
If you are going home with any tubes or drains, your cancer care team will teach you (or someone who will help you) how to care for them and what problems to watch for based on the type that you have. Make sure you know what supplies you need and how to get them. Some general things to know:
Developed by the American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team with medical review and contribution by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
American Lung Association. Oxygen therapy: Using oxygen safely. Updated December 15, 2023. Accessed at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy/using-oxygen-safely on July 22, 2025.
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Difficulty swallowing or dysphagia. Accessed at cancer.net. Content is no longer available.
Backler C, Kirmse JM. (Eds). Access device guidelines: Recommendations for nursing practice and education. 4th ed. Oncology Nursing Society; 2023.
Brant JM, Cope DG, Saria MG. (Eds). Core Curriculum for Oncology Nursing, 7th ed. Elsevier; 2024.
National Cancer Institute (NCI). Nutrition in cancer care. Accessed at https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/appetite-loss/nutrition-pdq#_312 on July 22, 2025.
Last Revised: July 22, 2025
American Cancer Society medical information is copyrighted material. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy.
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