Care of Patients with Cancer and Burn Injuries

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to cancer care and burn injury management as noted in the lecture.

Pathophysiology of cancer

The biological processes that lead to the transformation of normal cells into malignant cells, involving mutations that affect cell growth and division.

TNM Staging System

A classification system that describes the extent of cancer, including tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M).

CAUTION mnemonic

A tool to identify warning signs of cancer: Change in bowel or bladder habits, A sore that does not heal, Unusual bleeding or discharge, Thickening or lump, Indigestion or difficulty swallowing, Obvious change in a wart or mole, Nagging cough or hoarseness.

Chemotherapy

Treatment using cytotoxic drugs to kill rapidly dividing cells, affecting both cancerous and healthy cells.

Antineoplastic agents

Medications used to treat cancer by inhibiting cell growth and division.

Myelosuppression

A decrease in the production of blood cells due to chemotherapy, leading to conditions such as neutropenia and anemia.

Radiation therapy

A cancer treatment that uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, often requiring careful nursing management of skin care and fatigue.

Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)

A potentially life-threatening condition characterized by rapid breakdown of tumor cells leading to metabolic abnormalities.

Emergent Phase (Burn Management)

The initial phase of burn care focusing on airway management, fluid resuscitation, and infection prevention during the first 24-72 hours post-injury.

Parkland formula

A formula used to calculate fluid resuscitation needs following burns, defined as 4mL per kg body weight per %TBSA burned.

Fluid resuscitation

The process of replenishing fluids lost due to burns, crucial for maintaining tissue perfusion and preventing shock.

Anticipatory nausea and vomiting (CINV)

Nausea and vomiting that occur prior to chemotherapy treatment, often requiring preemptive antiemetic management.

Immunotherapy

A cancer treatment that harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells, with specific nursing considerations for potential immune-related adverse events.

Neutropenic precautions

Measures taken to protect patients with low neutrophil counts from infection, including isolation and strict hygiene.

Differentiation (Cancer Cells)

The degree to which cancer cells resemble normal cells; well-differentiated cells resemble normal tissue, while undifferentiated cells do not.

Antiemetics

Medications used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting, particularly in patients undergoing chemotherapy.