Multifaceted role of the registered nurse on an oral immunotherapy clinical team

Abstract

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) emerged into clinical practice, and its delivery highlights the multifaceted expertise of registered nurses (RN) as central to allergy/immunology interprofessional collaborative teams. The allergist‐RN model of clinical evidenced‐based OIT provision is presented. RN competencies, role components, and intervention examples are included to assist RNs and allergists in maximizing RN capabilities. RNs’ patient-centered focus, and the ability to evaluate and incorporate physical, psychological, and sociological patient aspects are assets to OIT teams. RNs can establish best practices, initiate scholarly inquiry, and disseminate new knowledge to interdisciplinary colleagues. RNs also implement allergist-prescribed standing protocols within their legal practice scope by using their clinical judgment during evaluation of a patient receiving OIT. The same RN may serve as a nurse clinician, patient and family educator, case manager, research collaborator, and OIT program manager. Allergy/immunology practices use diverse staffing models, which thus require adaptation of presented descriptions per clinical team needs and resources.

A practical approach to oral immunotherapy for food allergy

“…The authors of this manual have combined the information from published reports and their own clinical experience with the goal of providing general guidance with sufficient detail to enable readers to safely and effectively develop OIT programs for their patients. 5 – 29 However, there are limitations and disclaimers with such a publication; this manual is not intended to be a “cookbook” applicable to all patients. We urge physicians to consider this manual in its entirety and to determine the appropriateness and safety for each patient on an individual basis.…”

The role of dietitians and psychologists to promote optimum patient related outcomes in oral immunotherapy

“…Although research in OIT is perceived as primarily a biomedical endeavor, the involvement of multiple disciplines can ensure optimum treatment outcomes for patients and their caregivers. The Canadian Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology guidelines 4 for the ethical, evidence-based, and patient-oriented clinical practice of OIT in immunolglobulin E-mediated food allergy states, “A multidisciplinary approach adapted to patient needs should be promoted, and should include nurses, registered dietitians, psychologists, and peer supporters, when possible to ensure optimal delivery of quality care.” The role of nurses is covered elsewhere in this manual by Russell et al 5 In this article, we focus on the role of dietitians and psychologists to promote optimum patient-related outcomes to achieve the full potential of OIT in improving patient health and well-being.…”