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Outline
Overview
Pathophysiology
Lymphoma refers to cancer of the lymphatic system. This system includes the lymph nodes (glands located throughout the body), spleen, thymus gland and bone marrow. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and they are classified as such depending on the type of cell involved. Treatment depends on the type and severity. Lymphoma is characterized by painless, swollen lymph nodes.
Etiology
Lymphoma begins when a disease-fighting white blood cell (lymphocyte) develops a genetic mutation. Doctors are still unclear as to what causes this change, but have found that the mutation causes the cells to multiply rapidly and go on living when normal cells would die. The accumulation of these diseased lymphocytes causes swelling of the lymph nodes. Certain risk factors increase the chance of developing lymphoma, including being male, over 55, having an impaired immune system or taking immunosuppressants, and certain infections such as Epstein-Barr virus and Helicobacter pylori.
Desired Outcome
Maintain adequate ventilation, prevent infection, manage pain and symptoms of side effects related to treatments
Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s, Non-Hodgkin’s) Nursing Care Plan
Subjective Data:
- Persistent Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Itching
- Night sweats
- Lack of appetite
Objective Data:
- Swollen, painless lymph glands / nodes
- Fever, without infection
- Weight loss
*Symptoms are not always present*
Nursing Interventions and Rationales
- Monitor respiratory status and provide supplemental oxygen as necessary.
- Note changes to the skin color; pallor or cyanosis
- Observe for neck vein distention, headache, dizziness, facial edema, dyspnea and stridor
- Assess and manage pain; teach relaxation techniques, administer analgesics as necessary
- Nutrition education; monitor daily weight and caloric intake; encourage patients to eat small frequent meals and increase protein intake.
- Provide supportive comfort measures following radiation or chemotherapy treatments.
- Assist with positioning and monitor for skin breakdown
References
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