What is a primary nursing concern for a child receiving chemotherapy for leukemia?

Minimizing the risk of infection is a primary nursing concern for a child receiving chemotherapy for leukemia due to the immunosuppressive effects of the treatment. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, which include not only cancer cells but also healthy cells in the bone marrow that produce white blood cells, leading to neutropenia (low white blood cell count). This condition significantly reduces the body's ability to fight off infections, making children undergoing chemotherapy particularly vulnerable.

To address this concern, nurses will implement several strategies, including meticulous hand hygiene, monitoring for signs of infection, educating the family about infection prevention measures, and possibly administering prophylactic antibiotics or growth factors to stimulate white blood cell production, if indicated. It is crucial to minimize exposure to pathogens and to monitor vital signs regularly to detect any early signs of infection.

While managing hydration, preventing weight gain, and promoting physical activity are all important aspects of care for pediatric patients, the immediate threat posed by the increased risk of infection during chemotherapy makes it the priority in nursing practice.