2-3 October 2025, Nantes, France
Summary report written by Sandrine Bremathas, Simona Calza, Maria Finch, Kelly Hennessy, Salla Lehvonen.
The 17th Educational Meeting of the EBMT Nurses Group brought together nurses, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across Europe to exchange knowledge and explore innovations in hematopoietic cell transplantation and cellular therapies. The event was made possible thanks to the valuable support of the French EBMT Nurses Group and local nurse Thomas Jézéquel.
Session I: ”Perspectives on AML and HSCT : Advances in Patient Care and Management”
The opening talk, delivered by Caroline Bompoint, discussed EBMT guidelines about HSCT with MDT approach, highlighting indications and eligibility for a HSCT. The speaker covered genetic risk factors highlighting that the AML definition FAB classification is now obsolete.It was highlighted that in recent years, there have been major advances in the biology of AML, leading to the identification of prognostic markers that enable the categorization of new patient subgroups and antes the redefinition of the place of allogeneic HSC transplantation in these subgroups. Residual disease analysis is also a new tool that allows for increasingly refined indications for allogeneic HSCT. The diagnosis of AML must therefore lead us to define it cytogenetic and molecular characteristics as accurately as possible in order to determine its risk, and the search for a donor must be initiated as soon as the diagnosis is made. The process of eligibility is complex and we, as nurses, have a role to play!
The second talk, delivered by Thierry Guillaume, covered the different risk factors of AML following allogeneic HSCT: cytogenetic risk group (intermediate and high risk), CR status and transplant related factors. The types of post-transplant treatment were discussed; pharmacological and cellular therapy. Two approaches were identified: prophylactic (applicable to all high risk patients) and pre-emptive (applicable to a sub group of selected patients). It was concluded that current role of maintenance treatment remains unclear because of lack of randomised studies.
The final talk of this session, delivered by Richard Towers, addressed post-transplant relapse: supportive and palliative care as a treatment option. The speaker tested the audience’s perspective on palliative care. It was highlighted that taking a palliative care approach leads to better outcomes, better quality of life and lowers symptom burden, more people dying where they choose, often at home, fewer emergency department admissions and cost saving. The key take home messages were holistic coordination of the transplant encompasses clinical, social and emotional dimensions. HSCT nurses are central to advocacy and maintaining continuity of care. Finally, we discovered that the smaller acts of support make the biggest difference.
Session II: “ALL and HSCT – Predominantly Paediatric, but Not Exclusively”
The session opened with a presentation by Baptiste Le Calvez, who provided a broad overview of the current indications for HSCT in adult ALL. He offered an in-depth discussion on the factors influencing outcomes in paediatric allogeneic transplants, including donor type and the differences between first and second remission. A key question for the future, he emphasized, concerns the optimal use of Blinatumomab—whether as a first-line treatment, in combination with chemotherapy, or alongside HSCT or CAR-T therapy.
Continuing seamlessly from this, Audrey Grain delivered an insightful presentation comparing HSCT and CAR-T therapy in the treatment of paediatric ALL. She highlighted that while both therapies can be used alone or in combination, each presents significant challenges, including severe side effects and relapse rates of 25–40% following CAR-T treatment. In paediatric patients particularly, long-term toxicity and the risk of secondary diseases remain major concerns.
Marion Rougé then presented a mixed-methods systematic review titled “Interventions in Adolescents After Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation to Enhance Coping Strategies and Promote Adherence.” The review underscored the limited number of studies focusing on adolescents undergoing HSCT—remarkably, this was the first systematic review conducted on this topic.
The session concluded with an inspiring case presentation by Alaine Rasay, who highlighted the pivotal role of the HCT nurse specialist in preparing patients for transplantation. Her talk served as a powerful reminder of the essential contribution nurses make—not only to individual patient care but also to the effectiveness of the entire multidisciplinary team. She also emphasized the importance of providing adequate support and recognition for nurses in this demanding field.
Session III: ”GvHD: Navigating the Crossroads of Risk and Recovery”
The first talk was delivered by Cécilia Mourrut, exploring GvHD and its pathophysiology. The implications of conditioning regimen were highlighted- tissue microbiome damages, emission of danger signals, disruption of immune homeostasis and multiple organ damage. Studies of these abnormal responses led to identification of treatment targets and the hope of discovering new potential targets.
The second talk of this session was delivered by Céline Chauvel, highlighting key preventions and nursing essentials in managing GvHD. The Nightingale Foundations were emphasised: observation by detecting early clinical signs, education by informing the patient and their family, patient defence by protecting the vulnerable patient, favourable environment and decision. Other approaches in managing GvHD were also explored: in depth monitoring, therapeutic education, therapeutic strategy, MDT approach and clinical expertise.
The final talk of this session, delivered by Sophie Porcheron, focussed on GvHD Treatment 2.0: Exploring the Next-Gen Arsenal. Better understanding of GvHD pathogenesis helps to find new treatments and new therapeutic approaches. Due to the impact of GvHD on the patient’s quality of life, supportive care and treatment have to be considered as an active part of the patient’s therapeutic project. Nurses have a pivotal position in the global care of the HSCT patient.
Session IV: ”Advanced Nursing Practice”
The first talk, delivered by Thomas Jézéquel, focussed on 5 Years of Advanced Nursing Roles In French HSCT centres. Thomas introduced the evolution of the role of the advance nurse practitioner in the French healthcare system. He emphasised the different between the clinical nurse specialist vs the ANP. The ANP does not replace the transplant coordinator. The ANP should be involved from the beginning of the patient’s journey to assess the patient’s psycho-social needs, perform clinical examination ad explain next steps in a simple manner. The ANP is pivotal to the patient’s journey.
The next talk, delivered by Solène Evard, looked at The Role of Advanced Practice Nurses in Post-HSCT outpatient clinic. This role is crucial in the success of the post-transplant clinic, facilitating coordination between the transplant centres and the local hospitals and the wider MDT. The ANP is fundamental in the education and training of nurses and students, proving leadership internally and externally.
Finally, the last talk of this session was presented by Nsuni Met and explored Integrating Nursing Research into Daily Practice: Tools to Familiarize Care Teams with Research. Nsuni presented the history of nursing and advance nurse practitioners. Studies have shown that nursing research has a positive impact on patients. The following study, led by Nsuni, was used: nurses and the doctorate: a mixed study in French healthcare organisation. These subsequent specialities, including intensive care, psychiatry and oncology have the most nurse PhDs; because these departments organise practice-sharing sessions, staff meetings and perform many of the research projects.
Session V: “Infections”
The fifth session,focused on the topic of infections. It began with an excellent presentation by Dilnasheen Saftar, who provided an insightful overview of post-transplant infections. The talk explored the different causes—bacterial, fungal, and viral—as well as the typical timeline of occurrence for each type. As a key takeaway, the presentation offered valuable lessons on recognizing various infections and highlighted best practices for their prevention and management in HSCT patients.
Michelle Kenyon followed with a comprehensive presentation on post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). She outlined the defining characteristics of PTLD, discussed how to identify risk factors, and explained diagnostic strategies. The talk emphasized that while PTLD is often associated with EBV viremia, this is not always the case. Various treatment options are available, and emerging approaches include the use of EBV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes and donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI). The potential future role of CAR-T cells in PTLD treatment was also discussed as a promising avenue.
The session concluded with an engaging presentation by Lise Déchaud, who introduced S.H.I.E.L.D. (Safeguarding Health and Infection prevention Efforts LeD by nurses)—a nurse-led program designed to support patients following HSCT. The program includes interactive workshops covering topics such as medication management, nutrition, and infection prevention. These workshops use educational materials and card-based games to engage patients as they transition from the ICU to the rehabilitation unit and before discharge. Each session is facilitated by a coordinating nurse, emphasizing the central role of nursing in patient education and recovery.
The session wrapped up with a dynamic Q&A discussion, which provided an excellent opportunity to address questions related to infection prevention and the S.H.I.E.L.D. program. The concept of nurse-led workshops generated considerable interest among participants.
Session VI: “Cellular Therapy”
The session began with a presentation by Ruth Clout, who explored the question of why and how CAR-T therapy should be expanded from expert centers to local care settings. Drawing from the experience in the UK—though applicable to many other countries—she highlighted the key reasons for decentralizing CAR-T treatment: improving accessibility, reducing strain on expert centers, supporting patient care closer to home, and empowering local nursing teams to take a more active role in patient monitoring and support. Ruth emphasized that achieving this transition requires strong nursing expertise and training, including:
- Enhanced knowledge and competency in CAR-T care
- Familiarity with treatment protocols and emergency procedures
- Confidence-building through collaboration with expert centers and simulation-based training
Additionally, she underlined the importance of coordination and communication across centers, supported by digital tools, real-time information sharing, and clearly defined policies for managing complications.
Christina Castilla followed with an engaging presentation on the future of CAR-T cell therapy. She provided a concise overview of its historical development before discussing current challenges and emerging opportunities. Her talk explored the potential use of CAR-T cells in treating solid tumors, as well as the promising concept of “off-the-shelf” CAR-T cells, which could make this therapy more accessible and cost-effective in the future.
To conclude, Anna Llorens presented on vaccination strategies following CAR-T therapy. As CAR-T remains a relatively new treatment approach, many aspects of post-therapy immunity are still being investigated. Current findings suggest that while T-cell responses decrease over time, they remain sustained and comparable to baseline, and humoral responses—though reduced—persist, with immunoglobulin levels staying within acceptable ranges. She also discussed enhanced anti-infective prophylactic strategies developed to support patients after CAR-T therapy.
The session, and the day, concluded with an interactive Q&A discussion, leaving participants inspired and eager for the next day’s program, which promised another series of engaging and thought-provoking topics.
Session VII: Prize Winners of the 51st Annual Meeting from the Nurses Group
Best Research (adult) - by Anja Schmid - Anja presented results from the Smile study looking at symptoms associated with HCT. Categories included patient perceptions, side effects and main complications. Symptom occurrence was discussed as well as symptom distress and quality of life. 67 patients were enrolled in the study and recorded 15,789 days, 55 patients completed the full year with 150 entries over a year. Symptoms peaked @ D30 with loss of appetite was the most common symptom, followed by fatigue and pain. The study concluded that symptom distress follow up is relevant and long term distress management should be considered during post HCT.
Best Oral Presentation (paediatric) - by Andy Gooding - Andy presented his work about dressing changes when patients receive Thiotepa on his unit. He carried out literature and an internet search as well as emailing other UK centres to get a background on what is done elsewhere. Information was gained about bathing/showering, how to dry, what creams (if any) to use, frequency of nappy changes, CVL sites and bed linen changes. A comparison of using gauze and bandages v gauze and Mepore was shown. There was 50% skin breakdown in the former and 0% skin breakdown in the latter, however line displacement had to be considered. To decide what type of dressing to do an assessment tool was devised. Considering, patient age, how active/compliant, mental capacity, preexisting skin problems, other chemo and the duration and doses. To conclude, considerations needed to be made for risks of dislodgement v skin breakdown, where possible to avoid adhesive dressings, but if using, to use a small and breathable dressing and for it to be changed daily or post each shower/bath.
Best Poster Abstract (adult) - Maria Soledad Jimenez - Maria presented work her centre has done on peer-to-peer teaching involving patients and carers through workshops guided by expert professionals. They were trained in environmental hygiene, nutrition and medication, prevention and warning and emotional care. 2 sessions of 3 hours were carried out in 2 consecutive weeks. These were then evaluated using a 14 item satisfaction questionnaire. Findings from this showed participants recommending the workshop and that they had active participation when attending. Areas were found that could enhance the workshops and there is a plan for a qualitative study to supplement findings.
Best Poster Abstract (paediatric) – Johanne Lee. Johanne presented an innovative approach to Bone Marrow Transplant Nursing Education and team building through the use of escape rooms. A clinical scenario involving anaphylaxis during the administration of frozen hematopoietic stem cells was designed as the basis for the escape room experience. A total of 60 nurses and healthcare assistants participated in the training, which not only enhanced their teamwork skills but also significantly boosted their confidence in managing this critical clinical situation.
Research Committee Workshop: Artificial Intelligence (AI)
The Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshop aimed to clarify what AI really means in the context of healthcare: not as a futuristic abstraction, but as a practical and ethical tool that is already influencing how nurses collect, analyse, and interpret data. Lynn opened the presentation by exploring how AI represents the next major transformation in science—comparable to earlier industrial revolutions that reshaped society. While AI offers immense potential, it also raises critical ethical and professional questions. Using examples from machine learning and generative AI such as ChatGPT, the talk highlighted risks of inaccuracy, bias, and “hallucinated” data, emphasizing that ultimate accountability remains with humans, not algorithms. The European Commission’s recent guidelines for the responsible use of AI in research were presented as a key framework to ensure transparency, reproducibility, and trustworthiness. The closing message was clear: AI can empower researchers—but only if used responsibly, with integrity, and without losing essential human qualities like reflection, imagination, and moral reasoning.
Following this, Özgun Gökmen provided a comprehensive overview of guidelines for using AI and AI-assisted technologies responsibly in research. She highlighted the importance of methodological rigour, reliable data validation, and multidisciplinary collaboration to maintain scientific credibilityÖzgun illustrated how AI can support literature screening, predictive modelling, and data interpretation—provided these tools remain under human supervision.
The final presentation, delivered by Simona Calza, focused on how generative AI can assist researchers in literature searches and scientific writing. She demonstrated practical examples of how AI can help structure reviews, identify key studies, and even generate preliminary text, while also warning against over-reliance on machine-generated content. Simona stressed that the real value of AI lies in its ability to enhance human creativity and critical thinking, not replace them.
In conclusion: AI can empower nurses and researchers to achieve deeper insight and greater precision, but its true value emerges only when technology works hand in hand with human judgment, empathy, and integrity.
Session VIII: All Hands on Deck: The Power of Multidisciplinary Care in HSCT
The Patient's Voice: A New Partner in the Multidisciplinary Care Team - Hilda Mekelenkamp. The voices of patients and their families are incredibly important. Patient engagement occurs at various levels and stages, from a) simply informing to fully empowering, b) across individual, organizational, and systemic domains, and c) including research, education, and clinical care. Engaging patients has well-documented benefits, such as improved health outcomes, enhanced quality of life, and increased safety. Nurses play a key role in fostering engagement and, together with other healthcare professionals, can promote it in diverse ways, ultimately contributing to stronger interprofessional collaboration.
Let’s Talk About Sex: The Nurse’s Role in Recovery by Celine Gaillard. Celine discussed the impact of HSCT in patient’s sexuality and sexual desire. It affects 1:2 patients and women more so. Often patients aren’t able to communicate problems but are also not asked about it. Issues include body image disturbance, low self-esteem, anxiety and social isolation. Physical problems can be fatigue, pain nausea, weight loss and alopecia. Both male and females have changes in desire, problems with sexual arousal and how often they have sexual activity is often lower. Women suffer from dyspareunia, vulvovaginal dryness, early menopause and infertility. Men have erectile dysfunction and infertility. GvHD in women can also cause pruritus, vulvar discomfort, vaginal atrophy and stenosis. In men it can cause pain, phimosis and lichen sclerosis. A survey carried out in a group of patients showed 77% of men and 96% of women want to be informed about this. And 70% of all respondents want a systemic consultation. Providing information along the care pathway is important and patients need to be reassured and heard without judgement.
Post HSCT Diet: Does Evidence-Based Practice Bring Flavour to the Plate by Victoria Mace. A neutropenic diet (ND) was first developed in 1966 for people with neutropenia or undergoing blood cancer treatment. There is a lack of evidence and standardisation but still widely used. A conclusion from a systemic review and metanalysis including 1116 patients showed no evidence to support the ND and that safe food handling is more affective. It’s been found that there is an increased risk of malnutrition in the ND. This increases the risk of GvHD and reduces survival. Also, there is a reduced intake of fibre, vitamin C and micronutrients as well as an increased consumption of processed foods. Food is essential to QoL, can bring comfort and restrictions can exacerbate fragile states. There is poor diet adherence and acceptability with the ND. Eating safely with neutropenia can be achieved with safe food handling, safe food storage, safe food preparation. Being aware of at-risk foods is essential and it’s important to provide information for patients. A focus should now be given on food safety and only avoid high risk foods. Instead of using the term neutropenic diet, instead use ‘safer eating with neutropenia’.
Case Presentation: Paediatric Nursing Care in BMT for Sickle Cell Disease in Armenia: Challenges and Innovations in a Resource-Limited Setting by Taguhi Hovhannisyan. Allogenic HSCT is the definitive treatment for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). In Armenia, SCD is an uncommon disease, with cases mainly identified in patients who have immigrated from endemic regions. Between 2021 and 2024, 6 paediatric patients between the ages of 1.5 to 9 years underwent a HSCT. Pre transplant conditioning included two sessions of manual exchange transfusions. The exchange transfusion procedures required precise volume calculations, continuous haemodynamic monitoring and skilled nursing care to minimise potential complications. The experience highlighted the essential role of paediatric nurses in adapting complex procedures in resource- limited settings. With careful planning, safe and effective pre-transplant care can be achieved, facilitating access to curative HSCT even in the absence of automated technologies.