The recognition and nursing management of common oncological emergencies in children

Olivia Sherwen1, Madeleine Kate Baron1, Natalie Strachan Murray2

  • 1Year 5 Medical Student, University of Bristol.

British Journal of Nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
|January 12, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric oncological emergencies, such as neutropenic sepsis and tumor lysis syndrome, are life-threatening conditions requiring prompt recognition and management in emergency departments. This article provides essential guidance for healthcare professionals to effectively handle these critical pediatric cancer emergencies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Critical Care

Background:

  • Oncological emergencies can be the first sign of cancer, indicate progression, or arise from treatment complications.
  • Common pediatric oncological emergencies include neutropenic sepsis, hyperleukocytosis, brain tumors with increased intracranial pressure, tumor lysis syndrome, and superior mediastinal syndrome.
  • These conditions are life-threatening and demand immediate recognition and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To consolidate current guidance and recommendations for managing pediatric oncological emergencies.
  • To enhance the awareness and preparedness of emergency department (ED) health professionals in recognizing and managing these critical conditions.
  • To highlight the challenges faced by healthcare providers through illustrative case studies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current clinical guidance and recommendations for pediatric oncological emergencies.
  • Inclusion of case studies to illustrate practical management challenges.
  • Focus on essential knowledge for emergency department staff.

Main Results:

  • Identified key pediatric oncological emergencies requiring urgent attention.
  • Emphasized the critical need for rapid diagnosis and initial management.
  • Highlighted the role of ED professionals in managing these cases.

Conclusions:

  • Acute awareness of oncological emergencies is crucial for health professionals.
  • Confidence in recognizing presentations, diagnosing, and initiating management is essential.
  • Timely and effective intervention is vital due to the life-threatening nature of these conditions.

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