Essential concepts of inflammation and immunity

Virtually all patients in acute or critical care settings experience some degree of immune system alteration, which places them at risk for serious potential complications, including sepsis and debilitation. Nurses need a good working knowledge of specific areas of immune function to provide a safe environment, adequate patient support, and appropriate early interventions to prevent complications. This article presents information about basic immune function and current and potential uses for new immunodulating agents, such as granulocyte macrophage--colony-stimulating factor.