[Functions of nurses in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation units].
BACKGROUND
nurses working at the hematopoietic stem cells transplantation (HSCT) unit execute very specialized activities since transplantation is more than just being complex but involves a set of procedural techniques.


OBJECTIVE
describe activities completed by nurses working at HSCT units and classify them according to the frame of reference of a Brazilian HSTC unit.


METHODS
A qualitative descriptive research was carried out in May 2011 with 12 nurses using systematic observation techniques of their daily activities for a total of 77 hours.


RESULTS
staff nurses principally carry out caregiving activities and education whereas those related to cooperation, coordination and supervision are mainly executed by the nurse manager and visiting nurses.


CONCLUSIONS
nurses carry out all functions. They take charge of all transplant patients treatments and services. In some way, nurses exceed the scope of the profession.
Infirmière, Master. Hôpital de Clínicas da Université Fédérale du Paraná UFPR, Brésil, Brazil.
Kaoana
K
Lima
Elizabeth
E
Bernardino
Clémence
C
Dallaire
D000328:Adult; D001938:Brazil; D005260:Female; D018380:Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation / Q000451:nursing*; D006757:Hospital Units; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D024802:Nurse's Role