Polycythemia vera.
OBJECTIVE
To review the proliferative nature of polycythemia vera (PV), clinical features, laboratory findings, treatment options and controversies, and nursing management.


METHODS
Textbook chapters and review articles that pertain to polycythemia vera.


CONCLUSIONS
Polycythemia vera is a chronic myeloproliferative disorder that can evolve into acute leukemia. Treatment options include phlebotomy, myelosuppressive agents, interferon, and platelet inhibitors.


CONCLUSIONS
Nursing management of the patient with PV is challenging because of the evolving nature of the disease and treatment-related complications. Close monitoring and compliance with the treatment plan is necessary.
Knoop
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Saint Thomas Hospital, Nashville, TN, USA.
D000465:Algorithms; D006410:Hematopoiesis / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D011087:Polycythemia Vera / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D011379:Prognosis