Hematopoietic growth factors in clinical practice.
OBJECTIVE
To review the hematopoietic growth factors (HGFs) as they relate to hematopoiesis, dosing, administration, toxicities and clinical indications.


METHODS
Research studies, abstracts, review articles, product package inserts, and book chapters pertaining to HGFs.


CONCLUSIONS
HGFs are essential components for the development of blood cells. Recombinant DNA technology and the availability of HGFs have significantly altered the care of patients with cancer and bone marrow disorders.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses can play a major role in assisting patients, families, and various consumers by providing education about HGFs as well as their indications, schedule, methods of administration, and toxicities. Familiarity with the HGFs and the literature available can assist nurses in developing management strategies for patients receiving these agents.
Pitler
L R
LR
AIDS Clinical Trials Unit/Section of Infectious Disease, Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
D000075202:Contraindications; D006410:Hematopoiesis / Q000187:drug effects; D016298:Hematopoietic Cell Growth Factors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000097:blood / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011994:Recombinant Proteins / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use
D016298:Hematopoietic Cell Growth Factors; D011994:Recombinant Proteins