The blood and marrow transplant (BMT) nurses are experienced in caring for children undergoing a BMT. You will meet many different types of nurses when you come to or stay at the hospital. They may have different titles, depending on what they specialize in or the particular job they do, like nurse coordinator or pain and sedation nurses. Nurses will be involved in all aspects of your child’s care, from initial evaluation through treatment and recovery. They are specially trained to care for BMT and immunology patients. They work with haematologists and immunologists to design your child’s treatment and care plan.
Clinical nurse specialist
A clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is a registered nurse with advanced knowledge in a particular area of clinical practice. The CNS focuses on children with complex health problems. These nurses generally provide assessments along with education and guidance in the following ways:
- around a specific diagnosis
- helping a child adjust to hospitalization or a surgical procedure
- managing a child's special needs at home
- making informed decisions
- helping the family adapt to caring for a child with a chronic illness
Nurse practitioner
Nurse practitioners are registered nurses (RN) with additional education. They are able to perform some of the diagnostic and treatment functions that previously only doctors were allowed to do. They have advanced knowledge and decision-making skills that apply to:
- assessment
- diagnosis
- drug prescription
- health promotion
Advanced practice nurse (APN)
This is a term used to describe both a CNS and a CNS/NP. All APNs have a Master's degree or higher, and have completed special nurse practitioner courses. APN nurses support families from the time your child is admitted, educating parents and nursing staff. The APN also collaborates between physicians, dietitians, pharmacists, and social workers.
BMT or immunology nurse coordinator
The BMT or immunology nurse coordinator plans all activities to prepare for your child’s transplant. They follow your child’s progress and care during your child’s stay in the hospital and in the follow-up clinic after your child’s transplant.
Apheresis/dialysis nurses
This is a team of nurses who specialize in collecting peripheral blood stem cells from the donor.