Building a Program: Implications for Infrastructure, Nursing Education, and Training for CAR T-Cell Therapy

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy program development has regulatory demands and unique operational processes that vary across settings. The infrastructure in which CAR T-cell therapy is implemented has implications for nursing education and competencies.

This article presents an overview of operational approaches to CAR T-cell therapy program development and oncology nurse education considerations. These are provided through the lens of two institutions approved to administer CAR T-cell therapy, with differing approaches to CAR T-cell program development, implementation, and staff training.

Development of freestanding CAR T-cell therapy programs are compared with programs embedded in a specialty area. Issues related to accreditation and financial considerations are explored. Distinct features of inpatient and ambulatory care settings are presented.

CAR T-cell therapy continues to expand as the number of centers offering approved therapies increases. Standardized workflow components and staff education are essential for best patient outcomes regardless of location and type of program that provides the therapy.