Ifosfamide neurotoxicity. A challenge for nurses, a potential nightmare for patients.

ABSTRACT

The alkylator-like agent ifosfamide, which has been found to be useful in the treatment of a number of solid tumors, can have severe central nervous system (CNS) side effects in addition to causing myelosuppression, nephrotoxicity, nausea and vomiting, pulmonary edema, and interstitial pneumonitis. This article, including a case study and a protocol, prepares nurses to do patient education and to observe, assess, and provide care for patients who may experience the CNS toxicity that ranges from mild changes to severe disturbances of mental state.