The Pembrolizumab Injection: What Happens During Each Home Visit

One of the questions patients most commonly have before starting home-based pembrolizumab is simply: what does a visit actually look like? Here is a clear, practical account of what happens from the moment the nurse arrives to when they leave.

Before the visit

Before each treatment cycle, you will have a brief check-in with the clinical team - typically by phone or a short digital assessment - to review how you have been feeling since the last dose, whether you have noticed any new symptoms, and whether there are any concerns to discuss. This check-in also confirms that your most recent blood test results are satisfactory to proceed with treatment.

Blood tests are scheduled at regular intervals throughout your treatment. These typically include full blood count, liver function, kidney function, and thyroid function. The results are reviewed by the supervising oncologist before each cycle. If a result requires attention, you will be contacted before the visit rather than on the day.

On the day of treatment

The nurse arrives at your home at the agreed time. They will bring all the equipment needed for the visit: the pembrolizumab injection (stored and transported at the correct temperature), any necessary clinical supplies, and documentation materials.

The visit begins with pre-injection observations: blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and a brief clinical check. The nurse will ask whether you have had any side effects or concerns since the last cycle, and document your responses.

The injection itself

The subcutaneous injection is administered into the fatty tissue beneath the skin - typically in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. A different site is used at each visit to avoid tissue irritation at a single location. The injection takes approximately 3-5 minutes. Most patients find it no more uncomfortable than a standard vaccination. A small raised area at the injection site is normal and resolves within minutes to hours.

After the injection

Following the injection, the nurse remains with you for a post-injection observation period. This allows any early reactions to be identified promptly. The nurse documents the visit, notes any observations, and communicates with the supervising oncologist as needed.

The total visit duration is typically 45-60 minutes, depending on how the conversation goes. Patients often have questions between cycles, and the nurse visit is a natural opportunity to address them. At the end, the nurse confirms the date and time of your next visit, and any actions needed before then.