Hoxworth employees help pen latest edition of textbook widely used in field of apheresis technology

Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is proud to share that four apheresis employees are now published authors. Caroline Alquist, MD, Krystol Weidner, Kelly Anstead and Jamie Swafford helped write Principles of Apheresis Technology, Eighth Edition. This textbook is often used by hospitals or apheresis centers to help staff learn about the latest advancements and technology in the field of apheresis. It can also be used by anyone preparing for testing toward qualification in the field or simply to sharpen their skills about the ever-changing subject of apheresis. The Hoxworth staff was asked to contribute to this book, thanks to their expertise in the field — touting a combined nearly 50 years of experience. 

Apheresis refers to the process of taking blood or blood products from a patient and using a centrifuge to separate those products. In some cases, certain components will be returned to the patient.

At Hoxworth Blood Center, the apheresis team does a variety of procedures to help local and even international patients. Some of those procedures include:

• Hematopoietic stem cell collection
• Mononuclear cell collection
• Therapeutic plasma exchange (plasma replacement)
• Thrombocytapheresis (platelet removal)
• Leukocytapheresis (white blood cell removal or granulocyte collection)
• Extracorporeal photopheresis (white blood cell treatment)
• Red blood cell exchange (red blood cell replacement)

Hoxworth Co-Director Caroline Alquist, MD, served as an associate editor for the book. Not only is she Hoxworth Blood Center’s chief transplant services officer, but also medical director of its mobile and fixed site apheresis program.

“As both associate editor and contributing author, I'm excited to see the Principles of Apheresis Technology, Eighth Edition, available to help another generation of apheresis providers learn more about the field and potentially prepare them for the Qualifications In Apheresis (QIA) exam," said Alquist.

Hoxworth apheresis director Krystol Weidner said she used this book in the past when she was studying for the Qualifications In Apheresis exam. She said this is a full circle moment in her career.

“For me, it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to the field of apheresis,” said Weidner. “Knowing our work helps advance the field and provides resources that help others thrive and develop is truly fulfilling.”

Similarly, apheresis nurse manager Jamie Swafford said not only was this a chance to share her knowledge with others in the field of apheresis, but it helped this team of authors learn from one another.

“I stepped outside of my comfort zone, and I really enjoyed collaborating with external and internal experts,” said Swafford. “We all worked toward a collective goal to benefit advancement and education in the field of apheresis, through a publication, which is very new and exciting for me. Our accomplishment signifies a sense of purpose, helping people on a larger scale.”