Infection Prevention and Management in Patients Living With Multiple Myeloma

The landscape of multiple myeloma (MM) treatment has been revolutionized by the emergence of quadruplet therapies and T-cell-redirecting immunotherapies. Although these advancements offer unprecedented responses and lengths of remission, they simultaneously create a profound state of immune compromise. Infection is a leading cause of death and a significant cause of morbidity in patients living with MM.

This article explores the complex landscape of infection in patients with MM, highlighting nurse responsibilities in early detection and management. Through targeted prevention and treatment strategies, nurses improve the longevity and the daily lived experiences of their patients.

This article is a narrative review of risk factors for infection and current practices for the prevention and management of infections in patients with MM, highlighting updated guidelines for nurses.

Risk factors for infection in MM include MM-related immune system dysfunction, disease-related factors such as renal failure, comorbid conditions, and treatment-related immunosuppression or cytopenias. By fostering competence through education, supporting autonomy through structured transitions of care, and maintaining relatedness through the patient-nurse relationship, oncology nurses can mitigate the infection risks associated with modern MM therapy.