Childhood Cancer · NCLEX Exam

A child with leukemia is at high risk for tumor lysis syndrome. The nurse understands that this is because:

  1. The disease progresses slowly and is rarely actively treated
  2. Rapid breakdown of cells releases potassium, phosphate, and uric acid
  3. Only solid tumors, not blood cancers, can cause this syndrome
  4. It is a complication seen almost exclusively in adult patients
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Rapid breakdown of cells releases potassium, phosphate, and uric acid

In leukemia (especially acute types) rapid cell death during therapy can lead to tumor lysis syndrome with hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyperuricemia, and risk of renal failure.

Difficulty: Hard Question 14 of 18

Practice all 18 Childhood Cancer questions

Keep practicing

More Childhood Cancer questions