Autologous cell transplantation and a discussion of the implications for nursing practice

Heart failure is a progressive disorder. An estimated 400,000 Canadians are diagnosed annually with heart failure, and a quarter experience severe heart failure that is unresponsive to medical therapy. Autologous cell transplantation (ACT) has been proposed as a new approach for cardiac repair, and holds enormous potential for the regeneration of injured myocardium cells. This paper explores the nursing implications of ACT. Specifically, the need for ongoing education, the delivery of psychosocial counseling interventions, and ongoing health assessments of the individual will be addressed.