OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) process specific to patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and their caregivers. DATA SOURCES: Research studies, book chapters, websites, expert knowledge, and journal articles. CONCLUSION: Although not curative, autologous HSCT is an important, manageable treatment modality, and continues to be a standard of care in MM for those patients who are eligible. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Although an area of specialty practice, an understanding of the HSCT process is important to broaden the knowledge of all nurses who care for patients with MM.
OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) process specific to patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and their caregivers. DATA SOURCES: Research studies, book chapters, websites, expert knowledge, and journal articles. CONCLUSION: Although not curative, autologous HSCT is an important, manageable treatment modality, and continues to be a standard of care in MM for those patients who are eligible. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Although an area of specialty practice, an understanding of the HSCT process is important to broaden the knowledge of all nurses who care for patients with MM.