ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To discuss current recommendations and resources for nurses to ensure they advocate for patients with cytokine release syndrome (CRS). DATA SOURCES: A literature search using key terms: cytokine release syndrome, neurotoxicity, CAR T, adverse events. CONCLUSION: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell immunotherapy is a growing and rapidly changing field of research. Prompt recognition and management of the side effects of CAR T-cell therapy is pivotal to the safe outcomes of patients. As patients are treated with these novel therapies, additional recommendations and standards for treating CRS and neurotoxicity will occur. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nursing plays a pivotal role in the CAR T patients' treatment course because they are the first line of defense in the care of these patients. Providers and patients both rely on nursing knowledge and training to recognize symptoms of CRS and neurotoxicity. With the early recognition of the signs and symptoms of CRS and neurotoxicity, nursing will help improve the outcomes of the patients receiving CAR T-cell therapy.
Subject(s)
Cytokine Release Syndrome/etiology , Cytokine Release Syndrome/therapy , Immunotherapy, Adoptive/adverse effects , Neoplasms/therapy , Oncology Nursing/methods , Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell/drug effects , Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/therapeutic use , Humans , Neoplasms/immunologyABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To discuss the mechanism of action and nursing care of adults receiving chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy. DATA SOURCE: Peer reviewed articles and pharmaceutical drug labels. CONCLUSION: CAR T-cell therapy is among the most exciting therapies in the evolution of cancer treatment. The efficacy of research with CAR T-cell therapy has shown promising results in hematologic malignancies as well as in solid tumors. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Understanding the complexity of care for these patients from the bedside to the outpatient setting is vital for their survival and quality of care.
