Nursing Management

Running head: NURSING MANAGEMENT 1
Nursing Management
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2
Nursing Management
Leukemia is a cancer of the lymphatic system and bone marrow. It is caused by exposure
to radiations, chemotherapy, or genetically. It usually affects the white blood cells. It occurs as a
result of abnormal gene mutations in the precursor cells leading to uncontrollable multiplication
of abnormal blood cells (Yang et al., 2016). The presence of defective leucocytes in the body
interferes with the body's ability defense against infection and later compromises the red blood
cell production. Neutropenia is a condition where the number of neutrophils in the body is less
than normal ranges. Neutrophils are the cells responsible for protecting the body against bacterial
and fungal infections. Leukemia is classified into two types; lymphocytic and myeloid. Each of
the types can occur as an acute condition or a chronic one. In young children, acute lymphocytic
leukemia is the typical type of leukemia experienced, and it accounts for 74%.
Regarding the case study, the child presents with neutropenia and a history of leukemia.
The definitive type of leukemia the child is suffering from is ALL. The signs and symptoms to
be monitored include; fever, swollen gums, bone pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, nose bleeds
and signs of infections (Vizcaino, Lopera, Martinez, Reyes, & Linares, 2016). The occurrence of
ALL prevents the formation of red blood cells which leads to anemia. Anemia presents with
fatigue and shortness of breath. Fever is a sign of infection which can occur since the body's
defense mechanism has been compromised.
Management of the patient begins with the assessment. The nurse will take a history from
the parents to gather information on signs and symptoms, and the duration the patient has
experienced them. The nurse should follow by a comprehensive physical exam, including all
systems. The nurse should then formulate a nursing diagnosis based on the patient presentation.