Multiple systems organ failure in the patient with cancer. Part II: nursing implications

Because of the expansion of aggressive therapeutic modalities, multiple systems organ failure (MSOF)--a sequential deterioration in vital organ function, is being diagnosed with increasing frequency in today's cancer population. The high mortality rate associated with this complex syndrome demands that oncology nurses become knowledgeable about its potential for development. Part II of this two-part review focuses on the collaborative role of the nurse in the recognition and prevention of MSOF. Key criteria for determining systemic failure are described, and pertinent oncologic risk factors are identified. A clinical evaluation guideline outlines important assessment criteria, laboratory studies, and nursing priorities for each system.