Caring for the Pediatric, Adolescent, or Young Adult Patient with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the issues pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients face during and after a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and guide appropriate nursing care for patients with ALL in these young age groups.

DATA SOURCES

Peer-reviewed journal articles, published guidelines, patient and family resources, and data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program.

CONCLUSION

Nursing care of children, adolescents, and young adults with ALL requires a comprehensive approach that is appropriate for the developmental needs of patients in this age group.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Oncology nurses must be aware of the unique developmental challenges that pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients face while dealing with a diagnosis of ALL, and have knowledge of resources available for these patients to effectively guide them through treatment and its side effects, fertility options, psychosocial challenges, and survivorship.