Infusion Nursing Notes by Nufactor provides education, resources and support to promote successful patient therapy within the infusion nursing community.

Understanding TREMFYA® (Guselkumab): A Targeted Treatment for Inflammatory Conditions

TREMFYA® is a biologic therapy known as a monoclonal antibody. It works by targeting and blocking interleukin-23 (IL-23), a key player in inflammation. When IL-23 is overactive, it can contribute to chronic diseases of the skin, joints, and digestive tract. By blocking IL-23, this therapy helps reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups, thereby improving quality of life. [More]

Plasminogen Deficiency: Unraveling the Mystery Behind This Rare Disorder

Plasminogen (PLG) is a naturally occurring protein that is produced in the liver and circulates in the blood. It is the main enzyme responsible for the breakdown of fibrin through the process known as fibrinolysis. Fibrin is the main protein found in blood clots which creates the structure to allow normal tissue to grow and fill in the wound. As healing occurs, fibrinolysis takes place when plasmin cuts the fibrin mesh at various places allowing the fragments to be cleared away. [More]

Understanding Crohn's Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract. Symptoms can include frequent, recurring diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever, reduced appetite, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, abdominal pain, abdominal cramping, mouth sores and pain or drainage near or around the anus due to inflammation from a tunnel into the skin (fistula). [More]

Mental Health Aspects of Chronic Diseases

Chronic diseases are long-lasting conditions that often require ongoing medical attention and management. They impact not only the physical health of patients but also their mental health. As nurses, we frequently encounter patients with chronic conditions, and it is vital to understand the intricate relationship between chronic diseases and mental health. [More]

Living with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Understanding the Journey, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is the most common form of leukemia in adults in Western countries. CLL is a disease of the white blood cells that typically affects adults over the age of 50 and is rarely seen in children. Most people do not have symptoms when diagnosed with CLL; however, some may present with enlarged lymph nodes. In late-stage diagnosis, patients may report fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight loss, pain in the upper left portion of the abdomen (due to an enlarged spleen) and frequent infections. Blood tests are performed to diagnose CLL. [More]

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Nurse’s Perspective

As a nurse, I have had the privilege of caring for patients with a variety of challenging diseases. One of the most challenging and complex diseases I have encountered was rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and potential joint damage. It’s not just a physical condition; it affects the emotional and psychological well-being of the patient as well. In this blog, I aim to share insights into RA from a nurse’s perspective, providing information on the disease, its management, and the importance of a holistic care approach. [More]

Disease States: Primary Immune Deficiency Diseases (PIDDs)

There are greater than 400 forms of Primary Immune Deficiency Diseases (PIDDs) recognized by the International Union of Immunological Societies.1 These rare genetic diseases are chronic, at times debilitating, and often costly per the National Institute of Health (NIH).1 PIDDs are also known as Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI). These can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, or ethnicity. They share a common thread; part of the immune system is missing or not functioning properly. This leads to the hallmark of increased susceptibility to infection; it could involve the sinuses, lungs, skin, ears, throat, spinal cord, brain, urinary tract or intestinal tracts. Physical exam may also identify signs of a PIDD including enlargement of lymph nodes, the liver or spleen. For some, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune symptoms or blood vessel inflammation could indicate a PIDD. [More]