The nurse's role in caring for patients undergoing LDL-Apheresis.

LDL-Apheresis is a new, exciting, highly computerised treatment which is currently being researched. It selectively removes the harmful lipoproteins, in particular Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) to which is attributed accelerated coronary artery disease 2-3 years after cardiac transplantation. Accepting the rather unique nursing role caring for patients receiving this treatment, the author has found that the research programme has opened up a challenging and very interesting variation in her career using advanced computerised technology. But it has also provided increased opportunity for her to use nursing skills, particularly in the area of communication, to enhance her relationship with the patients and raise the standard of care given.