The National Hemophilia Foundation’s (NHF) Nursing Working Group has been revising and expanding the Nurses’ Guide to Bleeding Disorders (NGBD). First published in 1995, the guide provides comprehensive information and practical ideas to assist nurses at all levels in caring for patients with bleeding disorders.
Over the last several years, the NGBD has further evolved into a readily accessible online resource, serving as an introduction to nurses new to coagulation and as an information source for more experienced nurses. New chapters, which continue to be added in downloadable PDF format, cover a wide range of topics such as hepatitis, orthopedics, pain, rare bleeding disorders and women with bleeding disorders.
“Treatment of Hemophilia A and B,” authored by Marianne McDaniel, RN, begins with an overview of the factor replacement therapies used in the clinical management of hemophilia A and B. McDaniel describes the considerations treaters of hemophilia take into account when prescribing, dosing and administering these products. Also reviewed are the additional therapies used to stop bleeding in patients with mild hemophilia, such as the synthetic hormone desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) and “clot holding” antifibrinolytic agents, such as aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid. Lastly, McDaniel explains the important physical warning signs of adverse reactions associated with particular therapies. The chapter closes by emphasizing the value of consumer education, information access and open communication between patients, their families and hemophilia treatment center staff.
