Myelodysplastic Syndromes:
A Nurse-Centric Workshop on Novel Treatment Approaches

Description
Epigenetic silencing of genes that function to suppress carcinogenesis caused by aberrant DNA methylation is one of the mechanisms believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of MDS. Preclinical and clinical research has shown that these epigenetic alterations can be reversed with the use of novel hypomethylating agents. The introduction of such agents has led to a paradigm shift in the treatment of MDS. This nurse-centric workshop will comprise three mini-modules addressing diagnostic evaluation, treatment planning, and clinical management of MDS. They will cover, among other areas, an overview of the natural history of MDS, prognostic features, staging and risk classification, and the evolution of MDS treatment. In addition, an explanation of the rationale for using DNA methylation inhibitors in the treatment of MDS, administration of current agents, and their side effects will be included. The concept of epigenetics will be presented via 3-D video animation. The program will conclude with an interactive case-based discussion that will facilitate the incorporation of current research into clinical practice and will include talking points for roundtable discussions on treatment options, symptom management, and patient education. Following the program, nurses may opt to receive a follow-up e-mail series that will reinforce program learning objectives and side-effect management strategies.

Multiple Myeloma: Nursing Roundtable Discussions

Description
Association conference satellite symposia are traditionally designed to educate large audiences on a particular therapeutic topic. However, are principles of adult learning breached by the inability of participants to engage thought leaders and colleagues in the discussion of questions, practice patterns, and complicated patient scenarios? In this symposium, 120 nurses will be divided equally into 6 breakout groups of 20, seated as roundtables. Each breakout group will be assigned a thought leader. A MM physician thought leader will begin the symposium with an overview of current treatment standards and outstanding clinical questions, to be immediately followed by a participant question-and-answer session.

IMER will then provide a dynamic learning opportunity via intimate roundtable discussions on three actual patients with MM. At each roundtable, MM standards of care based on disease stage, patient performance status, previous treatment exposure, and genetic factors will be discussed as they relate to the pertinent case. Thought leaders will then review a list of questions relating to complex nursing management scenarios.