Biobanking: How Oncology Nurses Can Contribute to Its Use

• Published in: Clinical journal of oncology nursing Vol. 25; no. 6; pp. 637 - 639
• Main Authors: Miller, Lori, Rosenzweig, Margaret
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Oncology Nursing Society 01-12-2021
• Subjects: Biological specimens; Collections and collecting; Informed consent (Medical law); Methods; Oncologic nursing; United States; genetic sequencing; precision medicine; rapid autopsy; biobanking; informed consent
• ISSN: 1092-1095; 1538-067X
• DOI: 10.1188/21.CJON.637-639

Biobanking is one of the most valuable tools in precision medicine. The ability of scientists to sequence tumors, blood, and normal tissue obtained from biorepositories has defined efficacious tumor targeting and a much better understanding of cancer pathology pathways. However, these biorepositories require a great deal of effort to establish and maintain. Oncology nurses are key in helping to bank tissue during routine procedures as well as complex surgeries. Nurses can obtain informed consent from patients and coordinate the banking of samples in a timely manner to ensure sample quality. Oncology nurses play an important role in informing patients of their biobanking options and connecting patients with the appropriate team for their biobanking needs.