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Ex vivo Expansion of Tumor-reactive T Cells by Means of Bryostatin 1/Ionomycin and the Common Gamma Chain Cytokines Formulation
Published on: January 14, 2011
Interleukin-2 therapy: needs of the patient in a critical care setting
Abstract:
IL-2 is a biotherapeutic drug and a biological response modifier. This drug has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for general use but continues to undergo clinical trials. Candidates for this therapy are patients with advanced carcinoma that has not responded to standard modalities of treatment. Administration of IL-2 can lead to systemic toxicity, which usually appears to be dose-related. As a result, high-dose therapy requires intensive care. The critical care nurse assesses and documents side effects that occur as a result of IL-2 therapy and must be aware of both the physical and psychological needs of the patient. Through successful assessment and intervention, the nurse can gain the knowledge required to manage, both physically and psychologically, patients who are undergoing this therapy.
Insights
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is an investigational biotherapeutic for advanced cancers. Critical care nurses manage its dose-related toxicities, addressing patients
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Critical Care Nursing
Background:
- Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a biological response modifier investigated as a biotherapeutic agent.
- IL-2 is not FDA-approved for general use and is currently in clinical trials.
- It is considered for advanced carcinoma patients refractory to standard treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the role of critical care nurses in managing patients undergoing IL-2 therapy.
- To emphasize the assessment and documentation of IL-2-related side effects.
- To underscore the importance of addressing patients' physical and psychological needs during IL-2 treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of IL-2 therapy protocols and associated toxicities.
- Focus on critical care nursing interventions for managing side effects.
- Assessment of patient's physical and psychological status during IL-2 administration.
Main Results:
- IL-2 administration can cause dose-related systemic toxicity requiring intensive care.
- Critical care nurses play a vital role in monitoring and managing these toxicities.
- Successful management involves addressing both physical and psychological patient needs.
Conclusions:
- Critical care nurses require specific knowledge to manage IL-2 therapy effectively.
- Comprehensive assessment and intervention are key to patient care.
- Nurses are essential in optimizing patient outcomes during this intensive therapy.
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