Authors

  1. Graham, Julie PhD, APRN, ACCNS-AG
  2. Ballejos, Christina PhD, RN, CNS
  3. Jenkins, Danisha PhD, RN, CCRN, NEA-BC
  4. Kelley, Christina DNP, APRN, AGCNS-BC, NE-BC, NPD-BC, CNE, CCRN-K

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has tested nurse staffing and other resources necessary for lifesaving treatment. The emergency use authorization in November 2020 of bamlanivimab as monotherapy and casirivimab/imdevimab as combination therapy brought hope to many as an option for outpatients at risk for severe illness. However, logistical concerns were soon revealed, because safe administration requires a location where patients can receive specialized care and monitoring for a period of 2 hours. This type of therapy would normally be offered at an outpatient infusion center. These centers often serve persons who are immunocompromised, and introducing COVID-19-positive individuals could threaten the safety of this population. This article describes the deployment of an emergency department-embedded infusion center set up for the purpose of supporting community members and providers electing for this treatment option.