| Summary: | Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are vital for many patients with chronic anemias associated with oncologic/hematologic disorders. However, repeated transfusions over time can lead to iron overload, which, if left untreated, can increase the risk of further malignancy and end-organ damage.
Nurses and other health care professionals may not be aware of the significant implications of RBC transfusions and iron overload in patients with hematological/oncological disorders. This article was developed by a group of Canadian nurse practitioners and specialized oncology nurses to help improve health care professionals’ understanding of iron overload in oncology patients and its associated risks, as well as provide a practical guide for the management of patients receiving treatment for this potentially serious condition.
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