Abnormal clotting in cancer: an overview of pathophysiology and etiology.

OBJECTIVE

To help oncology nurses become more cognizant of the increased risk cancer patients have for venous thromboembolism due to such factors as chemotherapy and hypercoagulability stemming from the neoplasm itself.

DATA SOURCES

Primary and tertiary literature and the author's clinical experience.

CONCLUSION

Establishing the optimal treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis in the future will depend in part on a better understanding of clotting aberrations. Oncology nurses must be cognizant of the various risk factors for thrombosis and bleeding and how they relate to cancer treatments and interventions.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Oncology nurses are in a unique position to recognize conditions that predispose cancer patients to the development of venous thromboembolism as well as its signs and symptoms. This enhanced understanding will ensure that patients receive appropriate and timely intervention.