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Childhood Cancer Case Study

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1. The two primary roles for nursing profession in cancer prevention include prevention and teaching. Prevention is aimed at preventing adult type cancers and informing people of possible carcinogens, including cigarette smoking and excess exposure to light. Lung cancer is a leading cause of death in America. The teaching aspect would be teaching family the signs and symptoms of possible childhood cancer. Unfortunately the signs and symptoms of cancer in children can be very subtle and may be diagnosed later d/t this.

2.The Cardinal symptoms of cancer in children consist of:
-Unusual mass
-Unexplained paleness and loss of energy
-Sudden increase in bruising
-Persistent, localized pain
-Prolonged, unexplained fever or illness
-Vomiting brought …show more content…

Tumor Lysis Syndrome: Hallmark metabolic abnormality that are a direct result of rapid release of intracellular contents during lysis of malignant cells. Essentially what this meant is a tumor that develops with the large and rapid amount of malignant cells being released and accumulate. Metabolic abnormalities associated with this disease include Hyperuricemia, Hypocalcemia, Hyperphosphatemia, and Hyperkalemia. Risk factors include, but not limited to, Elevated WBC’s large tumor burden, sensitivity to Chemo, Flank pain, lethargy, N/V, pruritus, tetany, and seizures. Management of this includes early detection of a patient at risk. Patients who are at risk should have serum chemistries and urine PH monitored constantly, Strict I&O, and aggressive IV therapy.

Hyperleukocytosis is defined as a WBC count greater than 100,000/mm3, which can lead to capillary obstruction and possible organ dysfunction. This may manifest in children as Respiratory distress and cyanosis. They may also have neurological changes including altered LOC, agitation, confusion. Management consist of chemotherapy, hydration, urinary alkalinization and allopurinol. Leukophoresis or exchange transfusion may be necessary for these children

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