|
Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) Healthcare Team
Patient care at
the Transplantation Unit
is offered by a variety of healthcare providers. Specialists from
various areas work together to
plan and provide the patient with the best care possible.
Physicians
When the patient is hospitalized, the director of the
Transplantation Unit is directly responsible
for her/his care. Physicians from other specialties may examine the
patient and make recommendations as needed. Upon discharge from the Medical Center,
the attending physician will provide the patient with followup
care. Pediatric patients will be under the responsibility of a
specialized pediatric oncologist. Oncology fellows may be
involved in providing care. These are physicians who completed
their primary and specialized training in hematology/oncology
and BMT.
Nurses
The nursing team at the Medical Center is trained in special
BMT care responsibilities and skills. When
the patient is admitted to the Medical Center, the nursing
staff will
take the patient's medical history and record any special needs
that s/he may have. The nursing staff will quickly take care of many
simple problems and are responsible for contacting
physicians when necessary.
Dieticians
The clinical dietician will develop a nutrition care plan for the patient during treatment. A
dietician will meet with the patient several times during her/his
stay at the Medical Center to find out if s/he is having problems eating and to
suggest alternatives when necessary.
Pharmacists
Clinical pharmacy specialists monitor
the patient's drug therapy to make sure it is safe and effective. All medicines
prescribed are prepared by a staff pharmacist and delivered
to the nursing station.
Social Service
Social workers are professional counselors available for
the patient throughout the entire transplantation course. Social workers play an
important and supportive role in helping patients and family
members cope with financial concerns.
Psychiatric Service
A psychiatrist may perform a routine pre-transplantation evaluation
before admission. A psychiatrist may need to be involved during
the transplantation course to deal with some of the medications
used or if there are special problems.
|