Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
New trends have emerged in treating patients with autoimmune diseases with medications traditionally used in oncology. This article will summarize a comprehensive literature review performed to identify effective chemotherapy and biotherapeutic agents for treating each of the main autoimmune subtypes (nervous, gastrointestinal, blood and blood vessel, skin, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems). In addition to agents currently used, some of the newer therapeutic options show great promise to radically improve treatment choices when considering individualized plans. Improved outcomes and symptom management using newer nontraditional therapies provide a great impetus for oncology and nononcology healthcare professionals to remain abreast of the advancements made to current treatment options. All nurses (oncology and nononcology) need to be aware of these new trends and strengthen their understanding of certain oncology medications and their side effects, as well as establish the safe-handling practices necessary to administer these agents. The Oncology Nursing Society's Treatment Basics Course is one option that can provide nononcology nurses with the knowledge needed to fulfill new practice gaps. In addition, oncology nurses need to be aware of the many autoimmune diseases that may be treated with chemotherapy or biotherapy.
Introduction
New trends have emerged in treating patients with autoimmune diseases with medications traditionally used in oncology, such as chemotherapy and biotherapeutic agents. Those hazardous drugs (HDs) possess potentially dangerous patient side-effect profiles, along with risks of exposure to those administering the drugs. Oncology nurses can receive specific training offered by the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) on administering these medications and are required by their institution to be chemotherapy and biotherapy certified before administering these drugs. However, treatment with chemotherapy and biotherapeutic agents for autoimmune diseases takes place in nononcology settings by nursing staff who often do not have the knowledge and expertise to administer these types of medications safely or to protect themselves from unnecessary exposure. Although national certification is not required for nononcology nurses to administer HDs to the autoimmune population, growing concerns exist across the United States regarding the establishment of consistent standards that ensure competence in this area to support patient and nurse safety. This article will summarize a comprehensive literature review using an Ovid MEDLINE® search of effective HDs in treating refractory autoimmune diseases.