Crucial Conversations in Oncology Nursing: Management Considerations for the AML Patient

The landscape of AML treatment is evolving and newer targeted agents may improve outcomes for selected subgroups of patients. Oncology nursing professionals provide disease and treatment information, manage adverse effects, and offer emotional support. Knowledge of the key management issues for patients with AML is critical in fulfilling this role. Patients receiving both standard chemotherapy and newer agents need to be monitored for, and educated about, the risk of infection, bleeding and potential adverse events associated with treatment. Early identification and intervention is critical in order to reduce the potential for serious adverse events and complications.

Educational Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to:

1. Review recently approved agents for patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed AML and their implications for patient selection and nursing care

2. Evaluate patients with AML receiving treatment with recently approved agents in order to identify early indications of adverse events and implement appropriate interventions

3. Outline key education points for the patient and family/caregiver to prevent infection, identify signs of bleeding, and perform other assessments to improve early identification and management of adverse events