Nursing Care for Pediatric Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Receiving Chemotherapy Drugs: Concepts and Utilization in Clinical Practice
Keywords:
nursing care of pediatric oncology patients, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chemotherapy drugsAbstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by abnormal proliferation and impaired differentiation of leukocyte precursor cells, resulting in the accumulation of malignant cells within the bone marrow. These leukemic cells progressively replace normal hematopoietic cells, leading to bone marrow failure, manifested as anemia, neutropenia with an increased risk of infection, and thrombocytopenia with bleeding complications. Standard treatment for pediatric ALL primarily involves chemotherapy administered in four major phases, including remission induction, consolidation/ intensification, central nervous system prophylaxis, and maintenance. The primary goal of treatment is to ensure patient safety throughout hospitalization, particularly during chemotherapy administration. However, chemotherapy-related adverse effects can significantly affect the physical and psychological well-being of pediatric patients as well as their family members. Therefore, nurses play a crucial role in achieving desirable clinical outcomes through comprehensive and evidence-based care. Pediatric oncology nurses are required to possess extensive knowledge of the pathophysiology of ALL, its clinical manifestations, diagnostic investigations, principles of chemotherapy, and nursing interventions to prevent treatment-related complications. Integrating clinical practice guidelines and evidence-based practice into patient and family care is essential for promoting safety, optimizing treatment outcomes, and improving quality of life for children with ALL and their families.
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