Hypersensitivity reactions to biological drugs.
OBJECTIVE
To review the current evidence regarding hypersensitivity reactions related to the administration of biological drugs in the management of cancer, and to provide the nurse with appropriate interventions related to the management of hypersensitivity reactions.


METHODS
Review articles and research studies from the medical and nursing literature.


CONCLUSIONS
Current evidence is available regarding the types of reactions that are associated with the administration of biological drugs in the management of cancer. Medical and nursing studies that review the most effective management of hypersensitivity reactions related to the administration of biological drugs. A review of "best practice" is offered in this article regarding the management of hypersensitivity reactions related to the administration of biological drugs.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses play a key role in the early identification of hypersensitivity reactions. Management of hypersensitivity reactions must be rapid for optimal patient outcomes.
Gobel
Barbara Holmes
BH
Northwestern Memorial Hospital, 251 E. Huron-Feinberg Pavilion 4-508, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. bgobel@nmh.org
D001685:Biological Factors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000145:classification; D006801:Humans
D001685:Biological Factors