Convalescent Plasma: Education and Administration Implications

Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2021 Feb 1;25(1):28-32. doi: 10.1188/21.CJON.28-32.

Abstract

Convalescent plasma has emerged as a treatment that merits consideration for COVID-19-positive patients requiring hospitalization. With millions of cases of COVID-19 being reported worldwide, nurses across specialties are caring for infected patients and are often the primary patient educators about convalescent plasma treatment. Keeping abreast of current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practice allows nurses to identify patients who should be considered for treatment, understand the administration guidelines, and be aware of the toxicity profile to provide safe and high-quality care to patients. The purpose of this article is to provide information on convalescent plasma as a treatment for COVID-19.

Keywords: COVID-19; antibodies; convalescent plasma; pandemic; passive immunization.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antibodies, Viral / administration & dosage*
  • Antibodies, Viral / therapeutic use*
  • COVID-19 / immunology*
  • COVID-19 / therapy*
  • Female
  • Health Personnel / education*
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Passive / methods
  • Immunization, Passive / standards*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Plasma / immunology*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral