Optune®: Practical Nursing Applications

Background: After receiving U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) in 2015, following initial approval for treatment of recurrent GBM in 2011, Optune®, a device that uses tumor-treating fields (TTFields) therapy, continues to gain acceptance in the practice environment.

Objectives: This article reviews how TTFields differ from traditional GBM treatment approaches and discusses the pivotal role nurses play in helping patients successfully use this therapy. This includes the importance of adherence to daily continuous therapy because adherence optimizes patient outcomes.

Methods: This article provides oncology nurses with practical guidance to share with patients who are candidates for treatment with TTFields, as well as information to facilitate patients' understanding of the use of Optune and how best to incorporate it into their activities of daily living.

Findings: Nurses are key members of the multidisciplinary treatment team that manages patients with GBM. Therefore, oncology nurses are well equipped to educate patients and caregivers about the use of and benefits of adherence to TTFields.