Caring for the Pediatric, Adolescent, or Young Adult Patient with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Jacklyn Balliot1, Madison Morgan1, Brooke Cherven2

  • 1North Carolina Cancer Hospital, Chapel Hill, NC.

Insights

This review highlights the unique challenges young patients face with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It guides oncology nurses in providing comprehensive care tailored to developmental needs during and after treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Adolescent Health
  • Nursing Care

Background:

  • Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) presents distinct challenges for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients.
  • Understanding these age-specific issues is crucial for effective healthcare management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the multifaceted issues encountered by young patients diagnosed with ALL.
  • To provide guidance for nursing care tailored to the developmental stages of these patients.

Main Methods:

  • A review of peer-reviewed journal articles.
  • Inclusion of published guidelines and patient/family resources.
  • Utilization of data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program.

Main Results:

  • Patients face significant developmental, psychosocial, and treatment-related challenges.
  • Fertility concerns and long-term survivorship issues are prominent.
  • A comprehensive nursing approach is essential.

Conclusions:

  • Nursing care for young ALL patients demands a holistic approach considering developmental needs.
  • Oncology nurses require knowledge of available resources to support patients through treatment, side effects, and survivorship.
Abstract

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