Examining the level of knowledge and practices regarding the use of biologic agents among nurses working in oncology and hematology clinics at a university hospital

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the level of knowledge and practices of nurses responsible for the execution and management of cancer treatment in patients receiving biotherapy as related to the use of biological agents. METHODS: This descriptive study was conducted with 40 nurses in oncology and hematology units of a university Medical Faculty hospital in which biological agents are frequently applied. RESULTS: The majority of nurses (57.5%) were aged 23-27 years. It was determined that 35.5% of nurses obtained a patient history and 82.5% queried the allergic history of patients before biotherapy. According to the nurses’ responses, 79.5% monitored the patients in terms of development of local complications, 85% informed the patients about complications, and 77.5% informed them about delayed infusion reactions. CONCLUSION: Although the majority of nurses had not received a specific education about biotherapy, they were knowledgeable as related to the storage, preparation and administration of biological agents.