Ambulatory care for patients with acute leukemia: an alternative to frequent hospitalization

Over the past 5 years, 23 cancer patients diagnosed with adult acute leukemia have been able to receive their required therapies primarily on an ambulatory basis. This included chemotherapy, antimicrobials, and blood product infusions. The ambulatory primary nurse has been a vital facilitator in designing and implementing a care plan that includes drug administration, symptom management, and the complex coordination of community resources. The relationship that develops between the patient, family, and primary nurse is also a key factor in the effectiveness of such an ambulatory program.