CAR T-cell therapy: supporting patients throughout their treatment journey

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment for certain haematological cancers and holds great potential for further therapeutic applications. This article provides an overview of CAR T-cell therapy including its mode of action, complications and eligibility criteria. It also details the pivotal role of clinical nurse specialists in supporting patients undergoing CAR T-cell therapy and their families, from initial consultation to follow-up care. That role includes discussing their treatment with patients; empowering them to make informed decisions about their care; ensuring they receive tailored prehabilitation and rehabilitation; supporting them practically and emotionally during treatment; identifying and managing acute toxicities and longer-term complications; and generally ensuring that patients and their families receive the necessary support, including psychosocial support, at every stage of the treatment journey.