Psychological Issues of Stem Cell Transplant

ObjectivesTo address the psychological impact of transplant on quality of life, including physical, psychological, social, and spiritual, for the patient and caregiver, and to discuss the nurse's “emotional labor of caring” and “compassion fatigue” for such an intense vulnerable population.Data SourcesPsychological transplant studies, peer review journals, and textbooks.ConclusionThe psychological impact after the experience of transplant can leave an indelible impression on the patient, caregiver, and nurse.Implications For Nursing PracticeSuggestions are made for assessment and management of various potential psychological issues for the three mentioned populations. With these issues being better understood, nurses can actively lessen psychological morbidity.