The PQI Podcast

Modern Antibody-drug conjugates and New CINV Challenges

In this episode, we welcome Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP, a recognized leader in oncology pharmacy practice and research. Dr. Hanna shares insights into the evolving landscape of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and the unique challenges they present in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV).  As ADC use expands, oncology teams are observing new and sometimes underrecognized patterns of nausea and vomiting, particularly with HER2-directed therapies and delayed-phase symptoms that extend beyond the traditional monitoring window. This discussion highlights how these patterns differ from conventional chemotherapy and what that means for clinical practice.  Dr. Hanna also reviews emerging pharmacokinetic data and clinical trial evidence supporting the use of NK1 receptor antagonist–based antiemetic strategies. The conversation emphasizes practical, actionable approaches for optimizing supportive care, improving patient quality of life, and ensuring proactive symptom management within the medically integrated oncology team.  Learning Objectives:  1. Describe emerging patterns of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) associated with antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), with emphasis on HER2-directed ADCs and delayed-phase nausea beyond day 5  2. Discuss pharmacokinetic and clinical trial evidence on NK1 receptor antagonist–based antiemetic strategies when optimizing CINV prevention for patients receiving ADC therapy.  This episode offers 0.5 CE credit hours to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Claim CE credit here [https://www.lecturepanda.com/r/CEpodcastADCCINV]. Guest: Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP, Director of Pharmacy, Minnesota Oncology, Assistant Professor of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Associate Editor, Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology (JADPRO)  Disclosures: Speaker: BeOne, BMS, Exelixis, Pfizer Consulting Fees: BeOne, BMS, Exelixis, Pfizer, Astrazeneca

Advancing Oncology Care: Best Practices for Subcutaneous Administration of Anticancer Therapies

PQI Podcast | Season 10, Episode 5 Subcutaneous Anticancer Biologics: Best Practices for Safe Administration 0.5 hours of CE for Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, and Nurses Guests: Tonya Bauer, MSN, RN, OCN Karlee De Voss, MSN, RN Sylvia Sabala, RN, OCN As oncology care continues to evolve, subcutaneous administration of anticancer therapies is becoming an increasingly important strategy to improve patient convenience, reduce chair time, and enhance clinic workflow. However, these therapies often involve high volume injections and unique administration considerations that require careful planning, coordination, and technique. In this continuing education episode of the PQI Podcast, we explore how oncology teams are implementing subcutaneous anticancer therapies in practice. The discussion highlights the clinical rationale for subcutaneous delivery, operational considerations for oncology clinics, and practical techniques that support safe and effective administration. Pharmacists, nurses, and pharmacy technicians play a key role in ensuring appropriate preparation, administration technique, workflow coordination, and patient education. Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the clinical, operational, and patient-centered benefits and challenges of subcutaneous (SubQ) administration for anticancer biologics. 2. Identify best practices and technique considerations for the safe and effective delivery of high-volume SubQ anticancer therapies, including equipment selection, site preparation, and workflow integration. Continuing Education Credit This activity provides 0.5 hours of CE credit for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and nurses. Claim credit here [https://www.lecturepanda.com/r/SubQBestPractices].    Disclosures: The following relevant financial relationships within the past 24 months have been identified and disclosed for the speakers of this CE presentation: Tonya Bauer, MSN, RN, CPON, OCN – Consultant: Accord BioPharma No relevant financial relationships for the following reviewers: Ginger Blackmon, PharmD Tahsin Imam, PharmD Mary K. Anderson, BSN, RN, OCN

Preventing Blood Clots in Cancer Care

PQI Podcast | Season 10, Episode 4 Blood Clots and Cancer: What Every Oncology Team Should Know March is Blood Clot Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to spotlight an often overlooked but life-threatening complication in cancer care: blood clots. In this episode of the PQI Podcast, we speak with Leslie Lake, Voluntary President and Board Chair of the National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA). After surviving a bilateral pulmonary embolism in 2018, Leslie became a passionate advocate for improving patient education, awareness, and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Her personal experience with limited information after discharge from the hospital inspired her to help ensure that other patients receive the knowledge and support they need. Leslie shares insights into the mission of the National Blood Clot Alliance and their national education initiative, Stop the Clot®, which works to increase awareness of blood clot risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies. The conversation also highlights why oncology teams should pay close attention to blood clot risk in patients with cancer, how healthcare professionals can better educate patients, and the role of advocacy and policy in improving outcomes. Listeners will learn practical strategies for patient education, key risk factors oncology teams should recognize, and how organizations like NBCA are working to improve awareness and prevention nationwide. Learn more at: www.stoptheclot.org

No Room for Shortages: Protecting Patients Through Advocacy + Action

In Season 10, Episode 3 of the PQI Podcast, we are joined by Laura Bray, MBA, founder and Chief Change Maker of Angels for Change, to explore one of the most urgent challenges in oncology today: drug shortages. Laura shares the powerful personal story that led to the creation of Angels for Change after her daughter faced multiple life-saving drug shortages during cancer treatment. She provides a patient-centered perspective on what drug shortages truly look like in real time and why they have such a profound impact on care. The conversation highlights the current state of drug shortages across the United States and globally, along with the innovative work being done through Angels for Change to build a more resilient and transparent supply chain. Laura discusses key initiatives such as Project PROTECT and Project GOLD, which are helping ensure patients can access essential medications when they need them most. This episode also focuses on the role of pharmacists and the medically integrated oncology team in addressing shortages. From improving visibility to taking action within their own practices, listeners will walk away with practical ways to engage, advocate, and support patients during supply disruptions. Laura closes by sharing what gives her hope for the future and how collective action can move us closer to ending drug shortages for good.

Bringing Care Closer to Home: Advancing Rural Oncology

Bhavana (Tina) Bhatnagar, DO—Associate Professor of Medicine at the WVU Cancer Institute—shares her journey from academic centers to rural West Virginia, where she’s working to expand access and improve outcomes for underserved communities. We talk about what high-quality rural cancer care really takes: overcoming transportation and financial barriers, navigating limited specialty resources, building community-based clinical trials, and expanding access to innovations like CAR T—powered by strong multidisciplinary teams. Key takeaway: the best care starts with understanding the person behind the patient.