Primary hyperparathyroidism and the role of the nurse.

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that results in elevated levels of parathyroid hormone and subsequent hypercalcaemia. Nurses have an important role in the support, education and care of the older person undergoing surgical or conservative treatment. Knowledge of pathophysiology is essential to ensure complications of hyperparathyroidism are identified promptly and managed appropriately alongside existing healthcare needs.

Diagnosis and management of patients with hypercalcaemia.

Hypercalcaemia is a common biochemical abnormality in the blood that can be caused by malignancy, hyperparathyroidism, medications or underlying medical conditions. Initial signs and symptoms are often vague, however, if someone has severe hypercalcaemia it is treated as an emergency, requiring prompt management to prevent life-threatening complications such as dehydration, cardiac arrhythmias or coma. Understanding the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms of hypercalcaemia enables effective diagnosis and holistic management of the patient with complex health needs.

Nursing management of common oncological emergencies.

This article examines three of the most common oncological emergencies. It considers the underlying pathophysiology of these conditions and the symptoms. The role of the nurse in identifying these conditions and expediting timely care to reduce patient morbidity and mortality is discussed.

Application of Orem's conceptual framework to patients with hypercalcemia related to breast cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women in the United States. Although the disease itself may be chronic in nature, it may give rise to oncologic emergencies, such as hypercalcemia, superior vena cava syndrome, or spinal cord compression. If these emergencies are not prevented or treated promptly through early detection, premature death or disability may occur. Because it presents with general symptoms, hypercalcemia may be difficult to diagnose; however, early recognition and intervention may reverse the sequelae of this condition, and prevent recurrence. This article will focus on the pathophysiology, epidemiology, nursing assessment, and intervention in a case study of this oncologic emergency based on the Orem model.

Hypercalcemia of malignancy: Part II.

Oncology nurses are responsible for the ongoing assessment of hypercalcemia, including reviewing laboratory findings as well as evaluating patient symptomatology. Abnormal serum creatinine, calcium, electrolytes, magnesium, and phosphate levels and symptoms such as constipation, lethargy, and weakness may alert clinicians to problems with this oncologic emergency. Resolution of hypercalcemia is highly successful when appropriately monitored and treated and leads to a better quality of life and improved patient outcomes.

Hypercalcemia.

OBJECTIVES: To provide a review of hypercalcemia of malignancy, including the incidence, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, treatment, and nursing interventions. DATA SOURCES: Research studies, review articles, proceedings from nursing conferences, and book chapters. CONCLUSIONS: Hypercalcemia of malignancy is difficult to diagnose because the signs and symptoms are similar to those experienced by patients with end-stage cancers. Knowing the cancers and histologic cell types that are at high risk for hypercalcemia assists in early diagnosis and treatment. Treatment decisions must consider potential benefits and their risks and affect on quality of life. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Hypercalcemia of malignancy as a metabolic oncologic emergency requires accurate assessment and rapid intervention. Early recognition by the patient, family, and health care professionals can result in improved quality of life.

Long-term lithium therapy leading to hyperparathyroidism: a case report.

PURPOSE: This paper reviews the effect of chronic lithium therapy on serum calcium level and parathyroid glands, its pathogenesis, and treatment options. We examined the case of a lithium-treated patient who had recurrent hypercalcemia to better understand the disease process. CONCLUSION: Primary hyperparathyroidism is a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect of long-term lithium therapy. Careful patient selection and long-term follow-up can reduce morbidity. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: As much as 15% of lithium-treated patients become hypercalcemic. By routinely monitoring serum calcium levels, healthcare providers can improve the quality of life of this patient group.

The other electrolytes: magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus.

Other electrolytes besides sodium and potassium are important to ensure that the human body functions properly. Three of these are magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus. Each one has a normal level and specific assignments. If these levels are not maintained, homeostasis ceases to exist, and imbalance ensues. This article discusses the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatments of imbalance of these electrolytes.

Hematologic emergencies in the intensive care unit.

Hematologic emergencies in the oncology population may require an admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone, hypercalcemia, tumor lysis syndrome, and disseminated intravascular coagulation are diseases defined in this article. These are common conditions in oncology patients that are reduced or prevented with close monitoring and accurate assessments. The purpose of this article is to introduce intensive care nurses to these disease entities so they will have a better understanding of the care involved with an oncology patient in the ICU unit.

Understanding oncologic emergencies.

Cancer can precipitate life-threatening complications. Since the onset of these conditions can be gradual or abrupt, nurses need to be aware of the potential occurrence and treatment options available. This article includes incidence, treatment modalities, and nursing implications of common oncologic emergencies.