PA utilization on a pediatric bone marrow transplant unit.

Abstract

Operating without residents or fellows in continuous attendance, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant Unit utilizes PAs to assume primary responsibility for patients and to assure continuity of care. Major tasks assigned to the PAs include evaluation and assessment, writing notes and orders, and clinic follow-up. Basic PA training in pharmacology, physiology, and pathology has proved to be a sufficient background, supplemented by extensive on-the-job training; a knowledge of hematology is helpful. Severity of illnesses being treated contributes to burnout, which is addressed by staff support groups. This PA utilization model is strongly recommended for other such wards.