Apheresis training for nurses and physicians around the World

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Hematology
• Nursing

Background:

• A modular training program for apheresis nurses was developed.
• The program covers theoretical and practical aspects of leukocyte collection and therapeutic apheresis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To organize and evaluate a certification course for apheresis nurses and operators in Jakarta, Indonesia.
• To assess the effectiveness of the developed training program in enhancing apheresis knowledge.

Main Methods:

• A certification course was conducted in Jakarta in December 2013.
• The course included modules on hematology, physiology, apheresis basics, nursing aspects, and therapeutic procedures.
• Knowledge assessment was performed using pre-tests and post-tests in Bahasa Indonesia and English.

Main Results:

• 38 nurses and 32 physicians participated.
• Post-test scores significantly improved compared to pre-test scores for both groups (Nurses: 72/100 vs. 54/100; Physicians: 77/100 vs. 53/100).
• The improvement in knowledge was statistically significant (P < 0.0001 for pre- vs. post-tests).

Conclusions:

• The educational program effectively increased the theoretical knowledge of apheresis nurses and operators.
• The course is beneficial for physicians in the apheresis field, enhancing their understanding.
• This program offers a viable approach for educating and certifying apheresis professionals.