High-Dose Interleukin-2: Evaluation of a Standardized Order Set for Biotherapy in an Intensive Care Unit

Background: Life-threatening toxicity may result from administration of high-dose (HD) interleukin-2 (IL-2). Patients receiving HD IL-2 treatment often experience severe adverse side effects, which result in the interruption of treatment.

Objectives: A standardized order set (SOS) was developed for patients with melanoma or renal cell carcinoma receiving HD IL-2. The aims of the study were to determine compliance of clinicians to the SOS, report the completed doses and major side effects of HD IL-2, and document the satisfaction level of clinicians.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of 40 health records of patients with melanoma or renal cell carcinoma who were treated with HD IL-2 was conducted to determine compliance to the SOS. Staff satisfaction with the SOS was surveyed.

Findings: The SOS was successfully implemented with a provider compliance rate of 90%. Cardiovascular side effects were the most common. Clinicians found the SOS very satisfactory or superior in guiding care and treatment of side effects.