Oncologic compression emergency
NCLEX-RN glossary · Physiological Adaptation
Definition
A critical malignancy complication where tumor growth causes mechanical obstruction of vital structures, most commonly manifesting as Superior Vena Cava Syndrome.
Oncologic compression emergency in plain English
Nurses must recognize red flags like facial edema and venous distention to initiate the burden of emergency radiation and corticosteroid administration to prevent respiratory failure. A common mistake is delaying the notification of the provider or the start of emergency interventions to perform routine tasks like scheduled hygiene or bed changes.
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