Blood Matters - a Podcast for Nurses

In Episode 18, Michelle and Emma explore the complex world of related stem cell donors with guests Daphna Hutt and Annika Kisch. From testing related donors to nurse-led clinics and paediatric care, they unpack the challenges of balancing ethics, research, and compassion. Because, let’s face it—donation is no piece of cake! Don’t miss this insightful episode—tune in now and discover the fascinating work behind stem cell donation!

Resources mentioned:

• Wiener L, Hoag JA, Pelletier W, Shah NN, Shaw BE, Pulsipher MA, Bruce J, Bader P, Willasch AM, Dalissier A, Guilcher G, Anthias C, Confer DL, Sees JA, Logan B, Switzer GE. Transplant center practices for psychosocial assessment and management of pediatric hematopoietic stem cell donors. Bone Marrow Transplant. 2019 Nov;54(11):1780-1788. ⁠doi: 10.1038/s41409-019-0515-3⁠. Epub 2019 Apr 10. PMID: 30971776; PMCID: PMC6961459.
• Jacoby E, Hutt D. Donor assessment and follow-up: not a minor issue. Bone Marrow Transplant. 2019 Nov;54(11):1728-1729. ⁠doi: 10.1038/s41409-019-0529-x⁠. Epub 2019 Apr 10. PMID: 30971778.

In episode 17, Emma and Hilda are joined by Angela Leather and Natalia Lorente for an engaging exploration of the fascinating field of apheresis. This episode dives into the critical role of apheresis nurses, shedding light on their daily responsibilities and the technical complexities of stem cell collection and cryopreservation. Hear insights on overcoming challenges, from managing complications to caring for small children, and learn about the latest advancements in the field. With valuable expert advice, this episode is packed with must-hear information for anyone interested in apheresis!

In Episode 16, Michelle and Hilda are joined by experts Jinhua Xu-Bayford and Kelly Hennessey to explore the evolving world of gene therapy. They discuss key principles, clinical advancements, and future potential, highlighting its impact on patient care and the role of healthcare professionals in supporting families.

Tune in for valuable insights, real-world perspectives, a lively quickfire round, and a dynamic wrap-up with your favourite hosts!

In episode 15, Michelle and Hilda are joined by experts Rachel Phelan and Trude Minnee to tackle the essential topic of late effects screening and guidance. They explore the latest advancements in managing long-term impacts of transplant and cell therapy, offering practical tips and insights for healthcare professionals. This episode also dives into effective patient communication and innovative clinic models, providing valuable strategies to enhance care and support. Don’t miss this essential conversation for anyone involved in patient care and late effects screening!

Resources mentioned:

• Rotz SJ, Bhatt NS, Hamilton BK, Duncan C, Aljurf M, Atsuta Y, Beebe K, Buchbinder D, Burkhard P, Carpenter PA, Chaudhri N, Elemary M, Elsawy M, Guilcher GMT, Hamad N, Karduss A, Peric Z, Purtill D, Rizzo D, Rodrigues M, Ostriz MBR, Salooja N, Schoemans H, Seber A, Sharma A, Srivastava A, Stewart SK, Baker KS, Majhail NS, Phelan R. International recommendations for screening and preventative practices for long-term survivors of transplantation and cellular therapy: a 2023 update. Bone Marrow Transplant. 2024 Jun;59(6):717-741. doi: 10.1038/s41409-023-02190-2. Epub 2024 Feb 27. PMID: 38413823.

In episode 14, hosts Michelle and Hilda delve into the theme of survivorship with two insightful guests: Hélène Schoemans (physician) and Pepijn van Leeuwen (survivor). They explore various aspects of what survivorship means, its importance in healthcare, and how it can be effectively communicated and understood. The discussion includes personal experiences, definitions, and the concept of excellence in survivorship care. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the multifaceted nature of survivorship, with practical suggestions and key takeaways for listeners. Tune in now to gain valuable insights and join the conversation on survivorship!

Links Mentioned:

• Stovall, E., Greenfield, S., and Hewitt, M., editors. From cancer patient to cancer survivor: lost in transition. National Academies Press, 2006. https://doi.org/10.17226/11468
• Majhail, N.S., Mau, LW., Chitphakdithai, P. et al. Transplant center characteristics and survival after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in adults. Bone Marrow Transplant 55, 906–917 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41409-019-0748-1
• Rotz, S.J., Bhatt, N.S., Hamilton, B.K. et al. International recommendations for screening and preventative practices for long-term survivors of transplantation and cellular therapy: a 2023 update. Bone Marrow Transplant 59, 717–741 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41409-023-02190-2

 Links for Patients:

• CIBMTR: https://cibmtr.org/CIBMTR/Utility-Nav/Patients/Study-Summaries
• Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Network: https://bmtinfonet.org/transplant-article/late-and-long-term-complications-after-bone-marrow-or-stem-cell-transplant
• NMDP (Be the Match): https://bethematch.org/survivorship/
• National Bone Marrow Transplant Link: https://www.nbmtlink.org/
• Anthony Nolan: https://www.anthonynolan.org/blog/2016/09/cancer-and-survivorship-rachels-transplant-story

In episode 13 of our podcast, hosts Emma and Hilda explore the critical issue of Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections. This episode features expert guests Ton Van Boxtel and Christel Janssens, who discuss the prevalence, impact, and prevention of these infections, with a particular focus on transplant patients. Listeners will gain valuable insights into best practices for preventing Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections, the role of healthcare professionals in managing these infections, and the latest research findings. Join Emma and Hilda for a comprehensive discussion on this important topic!

Resources mentioned:

• Infusion Nurses Society (INS): https://www.ins1.org/

In the new episode of our refreshed podcast series, hosts Michelle and new addition Hilda, the EBMT Nurses Group President Elect, kick off the season by inviting Jenni Davies and Lorna Warwick to discuss the care and treatment for patients with Lymphoma. From dissecting the intricate changes in lymphoma treatment over the past five years to discussing the role of transplantation amidst evolving therapies, this episode offers an enlightening exploration of the field's recent developments. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire round and a summary from hosts Hilda and Michelle. Don't miss this informative episode marking the beginning of an exciting new season!

In Episode 11, Emma and Michelle delve into the complex world of Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) with expert guests Zinaida Peric and Sophie van Lancker. From unravelling the science behind GvHD to exploring its prevalence and cutting-edge treatments, this episode promises a captivating journey through the latest advancements and personal insights. Join the hosts and their guests for a dynamic conversation that demystifies GvHD, providing listeners with valuable knowledge and a deeper understanding of this critical medical condition.

Explore the world of transplant nursing and advanced clinical practice in this episode. Hosts Michelle and Emma with guests Daniel Kisielewski, Britt Snoek, and Diana Comerford share insights on career aspirations, challenges for early-career nurses in 2023, and the importance of advanced roles. Discover the career pathways, recognition, and differences between Specialist Nurses and Advanced Clinical Practitioners. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of nursing careers.

Resources mentioned:

• EBMT Nurses Next Generation Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/7439375/

In this episode of Blood Matters- a podcast for Nurses, hosts Emma and Michelle explore the critical topic of mental health within the healthcare profession. Joined by experts Ross McIntosh and Surabhi Chaturvedi, the conversation delves into the prevalence of mental health issues, the impact of training on mental well-being, and insights into addiction and self-harm among healthcare professionals. The discussion also addresses the challenging environments that contribute to mental health issues for nurses and offers practical advice on self-care and supporting colleagues. Join us for this insightful and important discussion on caring for the mental health of healthcare professionals.

In this episode, Michelle and Emma look back on our last seven episodes and the events of September in EBMT. They also share a sneak peek of what's coming in 2023 and 2024. Tune in for a fun and informative discussion about our past and future!

Resources mentioned:

• EBMT upcoming education events: https://www.ebmt.org/events
• EBMT Annual Meeting 2024: https://www.ebmt.org/annual-meeting-2024

This month your hosts Emma and Michelle are excited to be talking about writing abstracts. Putting pen to paper and starting your abstract can be a daunting task for even the most experienced professional, which is why we’ve asked two experts in the field for their advice. Throughout this episode, Annika Kisch and Marijke Quaghebeur share their tips, tricks, and advice to guide you through the abstract writing process. They also discuss why it’s important that nurses get involved and submit abstracts to further their professional development and share their valuable knowledge with the community. Grab yourself a notebook and pen, because this episode is full of valuable tips and tricks! 

Resources mentioned:

• Annual Meeting Abstracts: https://www.ebmt.org/annual-meeting/abstracts
• Nurses Group: guidelines for writing abstracts https://www.ebmt.org/ebmt/documents/nurses-group-guidelines-writing-abstract

In this episode Michelle and Emma are joined by our first Allied Health Professional guests, Nicola Scott and Christel Kuppers. Nicola and Christel are nutritionists working in the field of Stem Cell Therapies. Together, they give us an insight into their individual practice's, insights from the field, and how nurses can support their patients in this area. As always, there is plenty of food for thought throughout this episode to take into your own practice.

This month we’re discussing all things CAR-T with two experienced nurses in the field, Ruth Clout and Marjola Gjergji, who give us an insight into the Paediatric and Adult fields. Together with our hosts, they discuss the field of CAR-T, how we can best support our patients in this devleoping area, and the future of these treatments. Ruth and Marjola also share their personal experiences, hopes, and excitement about CAR-T and the opportunities they give our patients. Join us and listen today. 

Resources mentioned:

• The IEC Forum: https://www.ebmt.org/nursing/immune-effector-cell-forum
• EBMT-EHA 6th European CAR T-cell Meeting: https://www.ebmt.org/events/ebmt-eha-6th-european-car-t-cell-meeting
• The European Blood and Marrow Transplantation Textbook for Nurses: https://www.ebmt.org/ebmt-textbook-nurses

On this month’s episode, we’re covering all things myeloma, past, present, and beyond. Our hosts Emma and Michelle are joined by two experts in the myeloma field, Dr Graham Jackson and EBMT’s Chronic Malignancies Working Party (CMWP) Lead Nurse, Maaike de Ruijter. Together they discuss the current state of myeloma and their hopes for the future of patient care and treatment in the myeloma field. They also cover third sector organisations and how they can help our patients and nurses. Settle in for an interesting conversation with some of the field's brightest. 

Resources mentioned:

• Myeloma UK - https://www.myeloma.org.uk/
• Maggie’s Centres - https://www.maggies.org/
• EBMT Chronic Malignancies Working Party - https://www.ebmt.org/working-parties/chronic-malignancies-working-party-cmwp

The 49th Annual Meeting of the EBMT has finished and to recap the momentous event  Emma and Michelle are joined by three special guests; Thomas Jezequel, Marijke Quaghebeur, and Hilda Mekelenkamp.  
During this episode, they dive into all the highlights and surprises from the annual meeting and share what they are taking back to their centres. They also discuss why we should all be attending EBMT events and how to get involved in EBMT working parties and groups.
Grab yourself a coffee and listen to their experiences and thoughts on the first in-person Annual Meeting of the EBMT since 2019.

Resources mentioned:

• 'Immuno-T' - a motion comic for patients with immunotherapy - http://immuno-t.inmotion.care/en/about-us/ 
• Events:
  • ITC - https://www.ebmt.org/events/8th-international-transplant-and-cellular-therapy-course
  • 15th Educational Meeting EBMT Nurses Group - https://www.ebmt.org/events/15th-educational-meeting-ebmt-nurses-group
  • All upcoming EBMT events - https://www.ebmt.org/events
• Nurses Groups - https://www.ebmt.org/nursing/nurses-group-who-we-are
• Nurses Groups Carrer Opportunities - https://www.ebmt.org/career-opportunities
• Nurses textbook- https://www.ebmt.org/ebmt-textbook-nurses
• EBMT Membership:- https://www.ebmt.org/ebmt-individual-membership

This month Emma and Michelle are joined by experts from the field, John Murray and Angela Leather from The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, to discuss sex and intimacy during and after transplant treatment. Together they explore and simplify approaches for discussing this often sensitive topic with patients, provide practical tips, and highlight the challenges patients face in their sexual and intimate life. Tune in for valuable insights and advice for nurses and patients alike.

In the first episode of Blood Matters - a Podcast for Nurses your hosts Emma and Michelle are joined by the current EBMT President, Anna Sureda. Together they discuss the history of EBMT, the current education and research initiatives and programs being offered by EBMT and the Nurses Group that nurses and AHPs can access to enhance their knowledge, development and broaden their network, and their own professional development within the EBMT.

Coming in Mid-March is a new podcast, Blood Matters - a Podcast for Nurses, organised by the EBMT Nurses Group and hosted by Clinical Educator Emma Chalmers and the EBMT Nurses Group President Michelle Kenyon. Blood Matters will cover a range of topics relevant to nurses and AHPs working in the field of stem cell transplantation and cell therapy and will include interviews with experts in the field every month. Subscribe on Spotify and YouTube today!