Implementation of a Protocol for Management of Febrile Neutropenia in the Emergency Department at Veteran Health Indiana.

Background: Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a life-threatening oncologic emergency requiring timely evaluation and treatment. Unrecognized fever and infection can progress quickly and have been shown to increase morbidity and mortality in patients with malignancy. It is critical to identify patients with neutropenic fever on presentation to the emergency department (ED) and to initiate treatment immediately.

Tolerability and efficacy of chemoimmunotherapy when administered with a corticosteroid-free anti-emetic regimen.

Background: The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in combination with chemotherapy is commonplace. This study sought to determine whether the omission of corticosteroids from the antiemetic regimen in patients receiving chemoimmunotherapy changes control of nausea and time on ICI therapy.

Methods: This single-site, retrospective, observational study was conducted at Veteran Health Indiana, a level 1A Veterans Affairs tertiary care facility.

Impact of an Oral Antineoplastic Renewal Clinic on Medication Possession Ratio and Cost-Savings.

Purpose: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a pharmacist-driven oral antineoplastic (OAN) renewal clinic on medication adherence and cost savings.

Methods: This was a preimplementation and postimplementation retrospective cohort evaluation within a single US Department of Veterans Affairs health care system following implementation of a pharmacist-managed OAN refill clinic. The primary outcome was medication adherence defined as the median medication possession ratio (MPR) before and after implementation of the clinic.

Implementation and Evaluation of a 90-Minute Rituximab Infusion Protocol at the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center.

Background: The use of IV rituximab for the treatment of a variety of malignant and nonmalignant indications has been associated with significant challenges related to time and labor. To help alleviate some of these logistic challenges, institutions have implemented protocols to shorten the time in which rituximab is infused. The purpose of this study was to support the safe implementation of a 90-minute rapid infusion protocol for rituximab at the Richard L.

Evaluation of appropriate use of bisphosphonates and denosumab in patients with cancer.

Background: National guidelines recommend screening and treatment for cancer-related bone disease and continued monitoring of bone-modifying agents. It is unclear whether a standardized screening tool is utilized to identify eligible patients and ensure appropriate supportive care is implemented. The purpose of this study was to evaluate current prescribing practices and optimize management of bone-modifying agents.