According to the American Nurses Association, nursing “is the protection, promotion, and optimization of health and abilities, prevention of illness and injury, alleviation of suffering through the diagnosis and treatment of human response, and advocacy in the care of individuals, families, communities, and populations.” In plain language, AAMDSIF is pretty sure you will agree, “Nurses are angels in comfortable shoes.” (Author Unknown)
Registered nurses, (RN’s), have a range of responsibilities in hospitals, health centers, medical offices, even schools and community health centers. They can perform physical exams, provide health counseling and education, administer medications, care for wounds, as well as coordinate care with a wide array of health care professionals. Some RN’s are involved in research.
Bone marrow failure Bone marrow failure: A condition that occurs when the bone marrow stops making enough healthy blood cells. The most common of these rare diseases are aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Bone marrow failure can be acquired (begin any time in life) or can be… patients may have advance practice registered nurses (APRN) on their health care team. APRN’s have pursued additional education and clinical practice requirements. They may be nurse practitioners (NPs) or clinical nurse specialists (CNS).
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs), complement the healthcare team by providing basic and routine care under the direction of an RN, APRN, or physician in a variety of settings.
A hematology nurse is trained to care for patients with blood diseases and disorders. They may also assist with blood transfusions blood transfusions: A blood transfusion is a safe and common procedure. Most people who have a bone marrow failure disease like aplastic anemia, MDS or PNH will receive at least one blood transfusion. When you receive a blood transfusion, parts of blood from a donor are put into your bloodstream. This can help some… , blood tests, research, and chemotherapy chemotherapy: (kee-moe-THER-uh-pee) The use of medicines that kill cells (cytotoxic agents). People with high-risk or intermediate-2 risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) may be given chemotherapy to kill bone marrow cells that have an abnormal size, shape, or look. Chemotherapy hurts healthy cells along with… . The Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses (APHON) is the professional organization for pediatric hematology/oncology nurses and other pediatric hematology/oncology healthcare professionals. Its members are dedicated to promoting optimal nursing care for children, adolescents, and young adults with cancer and blood disorders, and their families.
AA&MDSIF is proud to recognize the important role of nurses in caring for our patients during National Nurses Week ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Who is your Florence Nightingale?