Oncological & Hematological Disorders — Cancer Types, Treatments, and NCLEX Nursing Priorities | Chapter 41: Saunders NCLEX-PN Review

Oncological & Hematological Disorders — Cancer Types, Treatments, and NCLEX Nursing Priorities | Chapter 41: Saunders NCLEX-PN Review

Chapter 41 of Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN® Examination (7th Edition) by Linda Anne Silvestri and Angela E. Silvestri delivers an in-depth review of oncology and hematology, equipping nursing students with the knowledge needed to care for patients with cancer and blood disorders. This chapter covers cancer biology, staging systems, diagnostic tools, treatment modalities, and essential NCLEX nursing interventions — from early detection to managing oncologic emergencies.

Watch the video above for a targeted high-yield review, then read the detailed notes below to strengthen your oncology and hematology knowledge for both clinical practice and the NCLEX-PN exam.

Book cover

Cancer Classification & Staging

Cancers are categorized as solid tumors or hematologic malignancies. Metastasis may occur via local seeding, lymphatic spread, or blood-borne routes. Tumor grading (I–IV) measures differentiation, while staging (0–IV) and the TNM system assess tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis.

Diagnostic Procedures

  • Biopsy types: needle, incisional, excisional, and staging biopsies
  • Tumor marker testing
  • Imaging: CT, MRI, PET scans

Early detection through screenings like Pap tests, mammography, PSA levels, and colonoscopies improves survival rates.

Treatment Modalities

  • Surgery: Prophylactic, curative, palliative
  • Chemotherapy: Side effects include myelosuppression, mucositis, alopecia, and nausea
  • Radiation Therapy: Teletherapy (external beam) and brachytherapy (internal) — each with specific safety protocols
  • Bone Marrow Transplant: Autologous, allogeneic, and syngeneic; monitor for infection and graft-versus-host disease

Hematologic Malignancies

  • Leukemia: Fatigue, infection risk, bleeding tendency; managed with chemotherapy and protective isolation
  • Lymphoma: Hodgkin’s (Reed-Sternberg cells) vs. non-Hodgkin’s; staging guides treatment
  • Multiple Myeloma: Bone pain, fractures, Bence Jones protein in urine; focus on renal protection and fracture prevention

Reproductive & Other Cancers

  • Cervical & Ovarian: HPV prevention, Pap screening, surgical and chemoradiation options
  • Breast: Self-exams, mastectomy care, lymphedema prevention
  • Prostate: PSA monitoring, TURP procedure, androgen suppression
  • Testicular: Self-exams, orchiectomy, fertility preservation
  • Endometrial & Gastrointestinal: Symptom recognition, surgical resection, chemo

Oncologic Emergencies

  • Tumor Lysis Syndrome: Electrolyte imbalances, renal failure risk
  • Superior Vena Cava Syndrome: Facial swelling, venous congestion
  • Spinal Cord Compression: Neurological deficits, pain, mobility loss
  • SIADH: Fluid overload, hyponatremia

Nursing Interventions

  • Implement neutropenic and bleeding precautions
  • Manage side effects of chemo and radiation
  • Provide emotional and psychosocial support
  • Educate on self-exams, prevention, and early detection

Conclusion

Oncological and hematological disorders require advanced assessment skills, a deep understanding of cancer biology, and the ability to respond to life-threatening complications. Mastery of these concepts not only supports NCLEX-PN success but also strengthens clinical competence in diverse patient care settings.

If you found this breakdown helpful, be sure to subscribe to Last Minute Lecture for more chapter-by-chapter textbook summaries and academic study guides.

Explore the full playlist for Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-PN® Examination (7th Edition) here: Complete NCLEX-PN Review Playlist

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