Targeted therapies: a nursing perspective

Polly Kay1

  • 1UCLA Clinical Research Unit, University of California-Los Angeles, 10945 Le Conte Avenue, PVUB 3360, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA. pkay@mednet.ucla.edu

Abstract

Insights

Targeted therapies offer more specific cancer cell action and better tolerability than traditional chemotherapy. These advancements expand treatment options, particularly for patients resistant to chemotherapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Cancer Biology

Background:

  • Review of targeted therapy development and relevant biological targets.
  • Analysis of targeted agents in current clinical oncology practice.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the evolution of targeted cancer therapies.
  • To assess the clinical utility and impact of targeted agents.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of research articles.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on targeted agents.

Main Results:

  • Multiple targeted agents are clinically available, offering specific mechanisms against tumor cells.
  • Targeted therapies demonstrate improved tolerability in monotherapy and feasibility in combination regimens.
  • Expanded cancer treatment options, especially for refractory cases.

Conclusions:

  • Targeted therapies represent a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
  • Enhanced understanding of targeted therapies is crucial for oncology nurses.
  • Knowledge of mechanisms, efficacy, adverse events, and administration is vital for nursing practice.

Related Concept Videos

Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Targeted Cancer Therapies02:57

Targeted Cancer Therapies

The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Nursing Interventions II: Selecting and Classifying the Nursing Interventions01:29

Nursing Interventions II: Selecting and Classifying the Nursing Interventions

Creating and executing a nursing diagnosis helps nurses plan care and guide patient, family, and community interventions. They are developed based on a patient's physical evaluation and support measuring the outcomes. It is not recommended to select random interventions throughout the planning process. Instead, consider the following six essential factors when choosing interventions:
Aims Of Nursing01:29

Aims Of Nursing

Nursing involves independent, cooperative, person-centered care for people of all ages, families, groups, and communities. Nurses assist the sick or the well person in all settings. Nursing includes promoting health, preventing illness, and caring for ill, disabled, and dying people. Health promotion encourages people to take responsibility for their health. It focuses on the healthy behavior of individuals, families, and the community and the factors that impact their health. Examples of...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine02:50

Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine

Combining two or more treatment methods increases the life span of cancer patients while reducing damage to vital organs or tissue from the overuse of a single treatment. Combination therapy also targets different cancer-inducing pathways, thus reducing the chances of developing resistance to treatment.
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...