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.
Shuey
Kathy M
KM
St. Vincent Healthcare, Billings, MT, USA. kathy.shuey@usoncology.com
Brant
Jeannine M
JM
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006934:Hypercalcemia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000451:nursing* / Q000628:therapy; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012720:Severity of Illness Index