Leukemia

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Nichole Weaver
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Included In This Lesson

Study Tools For Leukemia

Leukemia – Signs and Symptoms (Mnemonic)
Leukemia Pathochart (Cheatsheet)
Symptoms of Leukemia (Image)
WBCs in Leukemia (Image)
White Blood Cell Development (Image)
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Outline

Overview

  1. Proliferation of abnormal, undeveloped WBCs
    1. Unable to function in infection control / immunity
  2. Diagnosed by blood tests and bone marrow biopsy

Nursing Points

General

  1. Characterized by type of WBC affected
    1. Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)
      1. 2-4 years of age
    2. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
      1. 50-70 years of age
    3. Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)
      1. Peak at 60 years of age
    4. Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
      1. Incidence increases with age

Assessment

  1. Weight loss
  2. Fever
  3. Infections
  4. Pain in bones and  joints
  5. Night sweats
  6. Aplastic Anemia
    1. Pallor
    2. Fatigue
    3. Easy bleeding and bruising
  7. ↑ WBC in CLL and CML
  8. ↓ WBC in ALL and AML
  9. Philadelphia chromosome in majority of CML clients
  10. Mouth sores from chemo

Therapeutic Management

  1. Chemotherapy and radiation
  2. Bone Marrow Biopsy
    1. Apply pressure to biopsy site
    2. Provide analgesia
  3. Initiate neutropenic precautions
    1. Strict hand washing
    2. Limit visitation
    3. No fresh fruits or flowers
  4. Initiate bleeding precautions
  5. Avoid fatigue
  6. Plan activities to provide time for rest
  7. Instruct client on oral hygiene
    1. Rinse mouth with saline
    2. Avoid lemon, alcohol based mouthwash

Nursing Concepts

  1. Cellular Regulation
  2. Infection Control
  3. Comfort
  4. Clotting

Patient Education

  1. Bleeding Precautions
  2. Infection Precautions
  3. Oral Hygiene

 

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Transcript

In this lesson we’re going to talk specifically about Leukemia. You may or may not have heard of this before nursing school, but we’re gonna break it down for you and give you the most important things you need to know.

Leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow. Remember that the bone marrow is responsible for creating all of our blood cells, including red blood cells and platelets, but Leukemia primarily affects our White Blood Cells. As the cancer takes over, we begin to see excessive white blood cell production. The problem is that they are abnormal, immature, undeveloped cells. So they can’t actually perform the normal functions of a White Blood Cell. What does a white blood cell do? Well it’s entirely responsible for our immune system and fighting off infection. Without properly functioning white blood cells, you will not be able to fight off infections or heal wounds or anything of the sort. You can also see here how the shift towards excessive production of white blood cells can also hinder the production of red blood cells and platelets.

So how do we diagnose leukemia. Well we’ll first see the clinical picture, which you’ll see in a second could be pretty non-specific. But when we check a CBC and we get a White Blood Cell count with differential, we start to see this excessive production of these immature cells. What do I mean by differential? Well, remember you have multiple types of white blood cells. It starts as a stem cell and splits into either a myeloid cell or a lymphoid cell. Lymphoid cells become our lymphocytes, which are powerful infection fighters. Myeloid cells develop into red blood cells, platelets, and our other 4 types of white blood cells – basophils, neutrophils, eosinophils, and monocytes. So, the differential breaks these down into percentages – how many of the white blood cells are neutrophils versus lymphocytes, etc. Now, this only gives us a hint that something might be going on, so we also have to do a bone marrow biopsy – this allows us to see the actual cancer cells within the bone marrow to make an official diagnosis based on which type of cell is affected.

There’s lymphocytic leukemia which affects the lymphoid cells, and myelogenous leukemia which affects these myeloid cells. And both can be split into acute or chronic. Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia or ALL is most common in children under the age of 15. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia or CLL is most common in the elderly, usually 50-70 years old. Acute Myelogenous Leukemia or AML also peaks at about 60 years old. And Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia or CML can affect anyone, but the risk will increase with age. Generally speaking, the Acute forms are more serious than Chronic, and AML is more serious than ALL and it is the most common form.

When it comes to symptoms of Leukemia – they’re very non-specific and generalized, but there’s a few things that when you put them together it should click to you that something’s up. They’ll have weight loss, fevers, and frequent infections, as well as night sweats. Again, pretty general, right? But – combine it with these next few and a lightbulb should go off. They’re going to have pain in their bones and joints – why? Because it’s cancer of the bone marrow – so those bones are going to be achy. Because the bone marrow isn’t functioning properly, we can also see aplastic anemia – where they aren’t producing red blood cells or platelets as well either – so they are weak, pale, fatigued, and they will bleed or bruise easily. I’m telling you – the most common thing that happens is people feel these flu-like symptoms – fever, body aches, etc. – like they can’t shake it – and then suddenly they start seeing bruises pop up. And they don’t go away. They’ll bump into something really gently and a massive bruise shows up. That’s usually what gets people to start looking into it and going to see their doctor. Now, in Chronic leukemias we see overall elevated white blood cell counts, but in Acute leukemias we can see the counts drop as more and more of the bone marrow is affected quickly.

The primary treatment for leukemia is going to be chemotherapy and possibly radiation. Later in treatment, some patients may also be eligible for a bone marrow transplant. The primary purpose of chemotherapy is to target and kill those fast-growing cells. The problem is, it also kills fast-growing healthy cells like hair follicles and mucous membranes – so they can have quite a few side effects like nausea and vomiting, hair loss, and mouth sores – people may even call it chemo mouth. Because of this lack of functioning blood cells, we need to put them on neutropenic precautions. Now, the CDC says we don’t need to do reverse isolation – where we wear a mask and gown to protect the patient – we just use standard precautions, but we also limit visitors, especially sick ones, and we don’t allow fresh fruit or flowers – there’s too much risk for infection. We also use bleeding precautions because of the low platelets, provide frequent rest periods because of the extreme fatigue, and do really good oral care – especially from the chemo mouth. Open sores in the mouth are a HUGE source of infection getting into the bloodstream, so oral hygiene is a must for leukemia patients.

Priority nursing concepts for a patient with Leukemia are cellular regulation, infection control, and clotting. We need to support them through their chemo or bone marrow transplant, prevent infection, and use bleeding precautions to prevent injury. Check out the care plan attached to this lesson to see more detailed nursing interventions and rationales.

So let’s recap – Leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow that results in proliferation or excessive production of immature, undeveloped, non-functioning white blood cells. It’s classified based on whether it affects the myeloid or lymphoid cells and whether it’s acute or chronic, with AML being the most common and the more severe. Patients will be at high risk of infection and will be weak, tired, achy and will experience aplastic anemia – so they’ll be pale and will bruise or bleed easily. We treat this with chemo and radiation, or a bone marrow transplant if the patient is eligible. Just remember that chemo ALSO kills fast-growing healthy cells, so patients will experience quite a few symptoms. We want to support them through that, prevent infection with neutropenic precautions and really good hand hygiene, put them on bleeding precautions, and take good care of their oral health.

So those are the basics of Leukemia, use all of the resources within this lesson to learn more, including the care plan and case study. Now, go out and be your best selves today. And, as always, happy nursing!

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Concepts Covered:

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  • Respiratory Disorders
  • EENT Disorders
  • Prenatal Concepts
  • Studying
  • Prefixes
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  • Acute & Chronic Renal Disorders
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  • Legal and Ethical Issues
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  • Medication Administration
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  • Disorders of Pancreas
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  • Disorders of the Thyroid & Parathyroid Glands
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  • Eating Disorders
  • Learning Pharmacology
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Basic
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  • Factors Influencing Community Health
  • Lower GI Disorders
  • Intraoperative Nursing
  • Integumentary Disorders
  • Neurologic and Cognitive Disorders
  • Trauma-Stress Disorders
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  • Fundamentals of Emergency Nursing
  • Dosage Calculations
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  • Respiratory System
  • Basics of Human Biology
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Study Plan Lessons

Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
12 Points to Answering Pharmacology Questions
ABGs Nursing Normal Lab Values
Care of the Pediatric Patient
Glaucoma
Menstrual Cycle
Time Management
X-Ray (Xray)
54 Common Medication Prefixes and Suffixes
ABG (Arterial Blood Gas) Interpretation-The Basics
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Acute Kidney (Renal) Injury (AKI)
Addisons Disease
Advance Directives
Burn Injuries
Cataracts
Computed Tomography (CT)
Family Planning & Contraception
Informed Consent
Lung Sounds
Study Setting
Vitals (VS) and Assessment
Alveoli & Atelectasis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cushings Syndrome
Goal Setting
Macular Degeneration
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Preoperative (Preop)Assessment
Pressure Ulcers/Pressure injuries (Braden scale)
Therapeutic Drug Levels (Digoxin, Lithium, Theophylline, Phenytoin)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Diabetes Insipidus (DI)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
Epidemiology
Essential NCLEX Meds by Class
Gas Exchange
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Glomerulonephritis
Growth & Development – Infants
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Herpes Zoster – Shingles
Isotonic Solutions (IV solutions)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Osteoarthritis (OA)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Pancreatitis
Preoperative (Preop) Education
6 Rights of Medication Administration
Cerebral Angiography
Growth & Development – Toddlers
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Hearing Loss
Hypotonic Solutions (IV solutions)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Osteoporosis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD)
Preoperative (Preop) Nursing Priorities
Respiratory Acidosis (interpretation and nursing interventions)
Thrombocytopenia
Blood Transfusions (Administration)
Cardiovascular Angiography
Fractures
Growth & Development – Preschoolers
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hyperthyroidism
Hypertonic Solutions (IV solutions)
Integumentary (Skin) Important Points
Preload and Afterload
Respiratory Alkalosis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Echocardiogram (Cardiac Echo)
Growth & Development – School Age- Adolescent
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypothyroidism
Legal Considerations
Metabolic Acidosis (interpretation and nursing diagnosis)
Performing Cardiac (Heart) Monitoring
HIPAA
Metabolic Alkalosis
The SOCK Method – Overview
Ultrasound
The SOCK Method – S
The SOCK Method – O
Base Excess & Deficit
The SOCK Method – C
The SOCK Method – K
Biopsy
Anxiety
Basics of Calculations
Brief CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) Overview
Critical Thinking
Cultural Care
Gestation & Nägele’s Rule: Estimating Due Dates
Potassium-K (Hyperkalemia, Hypokalemia)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Angina
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Appendicitis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Asthma
Bloom’s Taxonomy
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Chronic Kidney (Renal) Disease (CKD)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
Dimensional Analysis Nursing (Dosage Calculations/Med Math)
Environmental Health
Fire and Electrical Safety
General Anesthesia
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Gravidity and Parity (G&Ps, GTPAL)
Impetigo
Leukemia
Levels of Consciousness (LOC)
Sodium-Na (Hypernatremia, Hyponatremia)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Diabetes Management
Dialysis & Other Renal Points
Local Anesthesia
Lymphoma
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Myocardial Infarction (MI)
Oral Medications
Pediculosis Capitis
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Routine Neuro Assessments
What is the NCLEX?
Adjunct Neuro Assessments
Anatomy of an NCLEX Question
Burn Injuries
Chloride-Cl (Hyperchloremia, Hypochloremia)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Fundal Height Assessment for Nurses
Injectable Medications
Moderate Sedation
Oncology Important Points
Somatoform
Technology & Informatics
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Fall and Injury Prevention
Hyperglycaemic Hyperosmolar Non-ketotic syndrome (HHNS)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IV Infusions (Solutions)
Malignant Hyperthermia
Maternal Risk Factors
Complex Calculations (Dosage Calculations/Med Math)
Intracranial Pressure ICP
Mood Disorders (Bipolar)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Ulcerative Colitis(UC)
Cerebral Perfusion Pressure CPP
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Crohn’s Disease
Depression
Isolation Precaution Types (PPE)
Paranoid Disorders
Personality Disorders
Cognitive Impairment Disorders
Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa)
Alcohol Withdrawal (Addiction)
Grief and Loss
Suicidal Behavior
Normal Sinus Rhythm
Physiological Changes
Post-Anesthesia Recovery
Red Blood Cell (RBC) Lab Values
SATA
Sickle Cell Anemia
Absolute Words
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cholecystitis
Discomforts of Pregnancy
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Heart Failure (CHF)
Hemoglobin (Hbg) Lab Values
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Influenza (Flu)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Postoperative (Postop) Complications
Sinus Bradycardia
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Anaphylaxis
Antepartum Testing
Hematocrit (Hct) Lab Values
Hemophilia
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hepatitis (Liver Disease)
Opposites
Sinus Tachycardia
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Tuberculosis (TB)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cirrhosis (Liver Disease, Hepatic encephalopathy, Portal Hypertension, Esophageal Varices)
Discharge (DC) Teaching After Surgery
Nutrition in Pregnancy
Pacemakers
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Pneumonia
Same
White Blood Cell (WBC) Lab Values
Atrial Fibrillation (A Fib)
Communicable Diseases
Platelets (PLT) Lab Values
Priority
Coagulation Studies (PT, PTT, INR)
Disasters & Bioterrorism
Nursing Process
Acute vs Chronic
Miscellaneous Nerve Disorders
Premature Ventricular Contraction (PVC)
What do you want me to know?
Duplicate Facts
Ventricular Tachycardia (V-tach)
Repeating Words
Ventricular Fibrillation (V Fib)
Denying Feelings
NCLEX® Question Traps
Albumin Lab Values
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs in Nursing
Outline Question Method (Note taking)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Benzodiazepines
Cholesterol (Chol) Lab Values
Delegation
Drawing Pictures
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hemorrhagic Stroke (CVA)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Hypertension (HTN)
Ammonia (NH3) Lab Values
Artificial Airways
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Endometriosis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Ischemic Stroke (CVA)
Nephroblastoma
Prioritization
Airway Suctioning
Chorioamnionitis
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Menopause
Stroke Assessment (CVA)
Triage
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cardiomyopathy
Gestational Diabetes (GDM)
Stroke Therapeutic Management (CVA)
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
Stroke Nursing Care (CVA)
Ectopic Pregnancy
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Thrombophlebitis (clot)
Hydatidiform Mole (Molar pregnancy)
Gestational HTN (Hypertension)
Infections in Pregnancy
Preeclampsia: Signs, Symptoms, Nursing Care, and Magnesium Sulfate
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Lab Values
Fever
Overview of the Nursing Process
Creatinine (Cr) Lab Values
Dehydration
Fetal Development
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hypovolemic Shock
Seizure Causes (Epilepsy, Generalized)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Cardiogenic Shock
Fetal Environment
Seizure Assessment
Chest Tube Management
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Distributive Shock
Fetal Circulation
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Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Seizure
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Process of Labor
Vomiting
Pediatric Gastrointestinal Dysfunction – Diarrhea
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C)
Mechanisms of Labor
Therapeutic Communication
Defense Mechanisms
Leopold Maneuvers
Celiac Disease
Fetal Heart Monitoring (FHM)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Meningitis
Appendicitis
Intussusception
Abuse
Constipation and Encopresis (Incontinence)
Patient Positioning
Complications of Immobility
Conjunctivitis
Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
Acute Otitis Media (AOM)
Placenta Previa
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Tonsillitis
Preterm Labor
Urinary Elimination
Bowel Elimination
Precipitous Labor
Dystocia
Pain and Nonpharmacological Comfort Measures
Hygiene
Overview of Developmental Theories
Postpartum Physiological Maternal Changes
Bronchiolitis and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
MAOIs
Postpartum Discomforts
Breastfeeding
Asthma
SSRIs
Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
TCAs
Congenital Heart Defects (CHD)
Intake and Output (I&O)
Defects of Increased Pulmonary Blood Flow
Blood Glucose Monitoring
Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)
Defects of Decreased Pulmonary Blood Flow
Mastitis
Insulin
Obstructive Heart (Cardiac) Defects
Mixed (Cardiac) Heart Defects
Specialty Diets (Nutrition)
Enteral & Parenteral Nutrition (Diet, TPN)
Histamine 1 Receptor Blockers
Initial Care of the Newborn (APGAR)
Nephrotic Syndrome
Enuresis
Newborn Physical Exam
Body System Assessments
Histamine 2 Receptor Blockers
Newborn Reflexes
Babies by Term
Cerebral Palsy (CP)
Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System
Head to Toe Nursing Assessment (Physical Exam)
Meconium Aspiration
Meningitis
Transient Tachypnea of Newborn
Hyperbilirubinemia (Jaundice)
Spina Bifida – Neural Tube Defect (NTD)
ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) Inhibitors
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Newborn of HIV+ Mother
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers
Calcium Channel Blockers
Cardiac Glycosides
Scoliosis
Metronidazole (Flagyl) Nursing Considerations
Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) Nursing Considerations
Vancomycin (Vancocin) Nursing Considerations
Anti-Infective – Penicillins and Cephalosporins
Atypical Antipsychotics
Rubeola – Measles
Mumps
Varicella – Chickenpox
Pertussis – Whooping Cough
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
Sympathomimetics (Alpha (Clonodine) & Beta (Albuterol) Agonists)
Parasympathomimetics (Cholinergics) Nursing Considerations
Parasympatholytics (Anticholinergics) Nursing Considerations
Diuretics (Loop, Potassium Sparing, Thiazide, Furosemide/Lasix)
Epoetin Alfa
HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors (Statins)
Magnesium Sulfate
NSAIDs
Corticosteroids
Hydralazine (Apresoline) Nursing Considerations
Nitro Compounds
Vasopressin
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Acute Kidney (Renal) Injury (AKI)
Addiction – Behavioral Problems Nursing Mnemonic (The 5 D’s)
Addisons Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (STEROID)
ADLs (Activity of Daily Living) Nursing Mnemonic (BATTED)
Adrenal Gland Hormones Nursing Mnemonic (The 3 S’s)
Airborne Precaution Diseases Nursing Mnemonic (MTV)
Alcoholism – Outcomes Nursing Mnemonic (BAD)
Alkalosis and Acidosis Nursing Mnemonic (Kick Up, Drop Down)
Altered Mental Status Nursing Mnemonic (AEIOU TIPS)
Alzheimer – Diagnosis Nursing Mnemonic (The 5 A’s)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Anemia
Anion Gap Acidosis 1 Nursing Mnemonic (KULT)
Anion Gap Acidosis 2 Nursing Mnemonic (MUDPILES)
Anorexia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (ANOREXIA)
Anticholinergics – Side Effects Nursing Mnemonic (4 Can’ts)
Aortic Aneurysm – Management Nursing Mnemonic (CRAM)
Aortic Aneurysm – Thoracic signs Nursing Mnemonic (PEE BADS)
Aortic Stenosis Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SAD)
Appendicitis – Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (PAINS)
ARDS causes Nursing Mnemonic (GUT PASS)
Arterial Blood Gases Nursing Mnemonic (ROME)
Assessment for Myasthenic Crisis Nursing Mnemonic (BRISH)
Assessment of a Burn Nursing Mnemonic (SCALD)
Assessment of Guillain-Barre Syndrome Nursing Mnemonic (GBS=PAID)
Asthma management Nursing Mnemonic (ASTHMA)
At Risk for Gout Nursing Mnemonic (MALE)
AVPU Mnemonic (The AVPU Scale)
Bacterial Endocarditis – Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Be Joan Of Arc)
Benzodiazepines Nursing Mnemonic (Donuts and TLC)
Beta 1 and Beta 2 Nursing Mnemonic (1 Heart, 2 Lungs)
Bleeding Complications (Minor) Nursing Mnemonic (BEEP)
Bleeding Precautions Nursing Mnemonic (RANDI)
Blood Type O Nursing Mnemonic (Universally Odd)
BPH Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (FUN WISE)
Bulimia – Signs and Symptoms 1 Nursing Mnemonic (BULIMIA)
Bulimia – Signs and Symptoms 2 Nursing Mnemonic (WASHED)
Cancer – Early Warning Signs Nursing Mnemonic (CAUTION UP)
Cancer – Nursing Priorities Nursing Mnemonic (CANCER)
Canes Nursing Mnemonic (COAL)
Cardiac Valves Blood Flow Nursing Mnemonic (Toilet Paper my Ass)
Caring Licensed Practical Nurse Nursing Mnemonic (CLPN)
Causes of Anaphylaxis Nursing Mnemonic (Many Boys Love Food)
Causes of Chorioamnionitis Nursing Mnemonic (Pregnancies Are Very Interesting)
Causes of Dyspnea Nursing Mnemonic (The 6 P’s)
Causes of Labor Dystocia Nursing Mnemonic (Having Extremely Frustrating Labor)
Causes of Pancreatitis Nursing Mnemonic (BAD HITS)
Causes of Poor Gas Exchange Nursing Mnemonic (All People Can Value Lungs)
Causes of Postpartum Hemorrhage Nursing Mnemonic (4 T’s)
Causes of Renal Calculi Nursing Mnemonic (Patients Complain of Pain and Difficulty Urinating)
Chest Tube Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (Two AA’s)
CHF Treatment Nursing Mnemonic (UNLOAD FAST)
Child Abuse/Neglect – Warning Signs Nursing Mnemonic (CHILD ABUSE)
CHO, CHO, CHON Nursing Mnemonic (CHO, CHO, CHON)
Cholinergic Crisis – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SLUDGE)
Circulatory Checks (5 P’s) Nursing Mnemonic (The 5 P’s)
Cirrhosis Complications Nursing Mnemonic (Please Bring Happy Energy)
Cleft Lip Repair – Post Op Care Nursing Mnemonic (CLEFT LIP)
Common Pathogens for UTI Nursing Mnemonic (KEEPS)
Common Signs of Parkinson’s Nursing Mnemonic (SMART)
Community Health Tool Nursing Mnemonic (MAP-IT)
Complications of Spinal Cord Injuries Nursing Mnemonic (ABCDEFG)
Complications of Thoracentesis Nursing Mnemonic (Patients Sometimes Bleed Internally)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Heart Failure (CHF)
COPD management Nursing Mnemonic (COPD)
Cor Pulmonale – Signs & Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Please Read His Text)
Coronary Arteries – Location Nursing Mnemonic (I have a RIGHT to CAMP if you LEFT off the AC)
Cranial Nerve Mnemonic 01 Nursing Mnemonic (Olympic Opium Occupies Troubled Triathletes After Finishing Vegas Gambling Vacations Still High)
Cranial Nerve Mnemonic 02 Nursing Mnemonic (Oh Oh Oh To Touch And Feel Very Good Velvet AH!)
Cranial Nerve Mnemonic 03 Nursing Mnemonic (On Old Obando Tower Top A Filipino Army Guards Villages And Huts)
Crohn’s Morphology and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (CHRISTMAS)
Cushings Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (STRESSED)
Cyanotic Defects Nursing Mnemonic (The 4 T’s)
Decrease ICP Nursing Mnemonic (Craniums Excite Me)
Dementia Nursing Mnemonic (DEMENTIA)
Depression Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (SIGNS)
Diabetes Insipidus Nursing Mnemonic (DDD)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
Diabetes Mellitus Type 1- Signs & Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (The 3 P’s)
Diagnostic Criteria for Lupus Nursing Mnemonic (SOAP BRAIN MD)
Diarrhea – Treatment Nursing Mnemonic (BRAT)
Dissociative Disorders
Diverticulitis Complications Nursing Mnemonic (Please Fix His Abscess SOon)
DKA Treatment Nursing Mnemonic (KING UFC)
Drug Interactions Nursing Mnemonic (These Drugs Can Interact)
Drugs for Bradycardia & Low Blood Pressure Nursing Mnemonic (IDEA)
Drugs that Cause SJS Nursing Mnemonic (I C NASA)
Eczema
Electrolytes – Location in Body Nursing Mnemonic (PISO)
Emergency Drugs Nursing Mnemonic (LEAN)
Environmental Health Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (I PREPARE)
Epiglottitis – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (AIR RAID)
Episiotomy – Evaluation of Healing Nursing Mnemonic (REEDA)
Evaluation of Irregular Moles Nursing Mnemonic (ABCDE)
Exercise Guidelines Nursing Mnemonic (FIT)
Factors That Can Put a Pregnancy at Risk Nursing Mnemonic (RIBCAGE)
Fetal Distress Interventions Nursing Mnemonic (Stop MOAN)
Fetal Wellbeing Assessment Tests Nursing Mnemonic (ALONE)
Fire Safety 1 Nursing Mnemonic (PASS)
Fire Safety 2 Nursing Mnemonic (RACE)
Flu Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (FACTS)
Fractures
GERD causes Nursing Mnemonic (Reflux Is Probably Mean)
Global Symptoms for Brain Tumors Nursing Mnemonic (HAS)
Gluten Free Diet Nursing Mnemonic (BROW)
Heart Failure – Right Sided Nursing Mnemonic (HEAD)
Heart Failure-Left-Sided Nursing Mnemonic (CHOP)
Heart Failure-Origin Nursing Mnemonic (Left – Lung|Right – Rest)
Heart Sounds Nursing Mnemonic (APE To Man – All People Enjoy Time Magazine)
HELLP Syndrome – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (HELLP)
Hemodynamics
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Hemorrhagic Stroke (CVA)
Hemorrhagic Stroke Risk Factors Nursing Mnemonic (HATS)
Hiatal Hernia Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Her Belly Really Hurts Following Dinner)
High Pressure Vent Alarms Nursing Mnemonic (Kings Eat Big Cakes)
High Risk Behavior Nursing Mnemonic (HEADSS)
Hypercalcemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (GROANS, MOANS, BONES, STONES, OVERTONES)
Hyperglycemia Management Nursing Mnemonic (Dry and Hot – Insulin Shot)
Hyperkalemia – Causes Nursing Mnemonic (MACHINE)
Hyperkalemia – Management Nursing Mnemonic (AIRED)
Hyperkalemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (Murder)
Hypernatremia – Causes Nursing Mnemonic (MODEL)
Hypernatremia – Signs and Symptoms 2 Nursing Mnemonic (FRIED)
Hypernatremia – Signs and Symptoms 2 Nursing Mnemonic (SWINE)
Hypernatremia – Signs and Symptoms 3 Nursing Mnemonic (SALT)
Hypertension – Nursing care Nursing Mnemonic (DIURETIC)
Hypertension- Complications Nursing Mnemonic (The 4 C’s)
Hypocalcemia – Definition, Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (CATS)
Hypoglycemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (TIRED)
Hypoglycemia Management Nursing Mnemonic (Cool and Clammy – Give ‘Em Candy)
Hypoglycemia symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (DIRE)
Hypokalemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (6 L’s)
Hyponatremia- Definition, Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SALT LOSS)
Hypoxia – Signs and Symptoms (in Pediatrics) Nursing Mnemonic (FINES)
Hypoxia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (RAT BED)
IADLS (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) Nursing Mnemonic (SCUM)
Increase MAP Nursing Mnemonic (VAK)
Inflammation- Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (HIPER)
Insulin Mnemonic (Ready, Set, Inject, Love)
Interventions for Aphasia Nursing Mnemonic (PROP)
Intra Uterine Device – Potential Problems Nursing Mnemonic (PAINS)
Intrarenal Causes of Acute Kidney Injury Nursing Mnemonic (TONIC)
Leukemia – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (ANT)
Levels of consciousness Nursing Mnemonic (Never Carry Dirty Socks Or Smelly Clothes)
Lidocaine Toxicity – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (SAMS)
Low Pressure Vent Alarms Nursing Mnemonic (Cake Everyday)
Lymphoma – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (NURSE For Pete’s Sake)
Management of Glomerulonephritis Nursing Mnemonic (Please Help Deliver Diuretics)
Management of Lyme Disease Nursing Mnemonic (BAR)
Management of Pressure Ulcers (Pressure Injuries) Nursing Mnemonic (SKIN)
Manic Attack – Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (DIG FAST)
MAO Inhibitors Nursing Mnemonic (TIPS)
Medication Classess for IBD Nursing Mnemonic (Sometimes I Can’t Answer)
Medications for Pancreatitis Nursing Mnemonic (Please Make Tummy Better)
Medications to Prevent Seizures Nursing Mnemonic (Pretty Little Liars Forever)
Meningitis Assessment Findings Nursing Mnemonic (FAN LIPS)
Mnemonic for Organ Systems (MR DICE RUNS)
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (DEMYELINATION)
Murmur locations Nursing Mnemonic (hARD ASS MRS. MSD)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology of Myocardial Infarction (MI)
Myocardial Infarction Nursing Mnemonic (MONATAS)
OB Non-Stress Test Results Nursing Mnemonic (NNN)
OLD CARTS Mnemonic (OLD CARTS)
Oral Birth Control Pills – Serious Complications Nursing Mnemonic (Aches)
Pain Assessment Questions Nursing Mnemonic (OPQRST)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for Parkinsons
Asthma
Pediatric Gastrointestinal Dysfunction – Diarrhea
Pharmacokinetics Nursing Mnemonic (ADME)
Planning Community Health Interventions Nursing Mnemonic (PRECEDE-PROCEED)
Pneumonia Risk Factors Nursing Mnemonic (VENTS)
Pneumothorax Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (P-THORAX)
Possible Infections During Pregnancy Nursing Mnemonic (TORCH)
Post-Partum Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (BUBBLE)
Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)
Preeclampsia: Signs, Symptoms, Nursing Care, and Magnesium Sulfate
Pregnancy Outcomes Nursing Mnemonic (GTPAL)
Probable Signs of Pregnancy Nursing Mnemonic (CHOP BUGS)
Process of Labor – Mom Nursing Mnemonic (4 P’s)
Process of Labor – Baby Nursing Mnemonic (ALPPPS)
Promotion and Evaluation of Normal Elimination Nursing Mnemonic (POOPER SCOOP)
Prostate Nursing Mnemonic (FUN)
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Pulmonary edema treatment Nursing Mnemonic (MAD DOG)
Pupil Reactions Nursing Mnemonic (PERRLA)
Reactivation of Herpes Zoster Nursing Mnemonic (FICA)
Reasons for a Bronchoscopy Nursing Mnemonic (Please Assess His Weird Bronchoscopy Results)
Reasons for Chest Tube Nursing Mnemonic (Don’t Ever Fail)
Restrictive Lung Disease Causes Nursing Mnemonic (PAINT)
Rheumatoid Arthritis Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (RHEUMATOID)
Risk Factors for Cholelithiasis Nursing Mnemonic (5-F’s)
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis Nursing Mnemonic (ACCESS)
Safety Check Nursing Mnemonic (MADLE)
SBAR Communication Nursing Mnemonic (SBAR)
Schizophrenia
Scleroderma Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (CREST)
Seizure Causes Nursing Mnemonic (VITAMIN)
Seizure Documentation Nursing Mnemonic (TDOC)
Senile Dementia – Assess for Changes Nursing Mnemonic (JAMCO)
Shock – Signs and symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (TV SPARC CUBE)
Nursing Care and Pathophysiology for SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate antidiuretic Hormone Secretion)
Signs of Osteoarthritis Nursing Mnemonic (OSTEO)
Sprains and Strains – Nursing Care Nursing Mnemonic (RICE)
SSRI’s Nursing Mnemonic (Effective For Sadness, Panic, and Compulsions)
Stages of Fetal Development Nursing Mnemonic (Proficiently Expanding Fetus)
Stages of Hepatitis Nursing Mnemonic (PIP)
Steps in the Nursing Process 1 Nursing Mnemonic (ADPIE)
Steps in the Nursing Process 2 Nursing Mnemonic (AAPIE)
Steps In The Nursing Process 3 Nursing Mnemonic (SOAPIE)
Steroids – Side Effects Nursing Mnemonic (6 S’s)
Stoke Assessments Nursing Mnemonic (FAST)
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism Nursing Mnemonic (SWEATING)
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism Nursing Mnemonic (MOM’S SO TIRED)
Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome Nursing Mnemonic (NAPHROTIC)
Symptoms of Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Nursing Mnemonic (COAT)
TB Drugs Nursing Mnemonic (RIPE)
Toxicity Sepsis- Signs and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (The 6 T’s)
Tracheal Esophageal Fistula – Sign and Symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (The 3 C’s)
Traction – Nursing Care Nursing Mnemonic (TRACTION)
Transient Incontinence – Common Causes Nursing Mnemonic (P-DIAPERS)
Trauma – Assessment (Emergency) Nursing Mnemonic (ABCDEFGHI)
Trauma – Complications Nursing Mnemonic (TRAUMATIC)
Trauma Surgery – Medical History Nursing Mnemonic (AMPLE)
Treatment of Sickle Cell Nursing Mnemonic (HOP to the hospital)
Triage Nursing Mnemonic (START)
Two pathways of the peripheral nervous system Nursing Mnemonic (SAME)
Types of Anemia Nursing Mnemonic (Always Introduce Special Patients)
Types of Hemorrhoids Nursing Mnemonic (Pie)
Ulcerative Colitis – Assessment Nursing Mnemonic (MADE 10)
Umbilical Cord Vasculature Nursing Mnemonic (2A1V)
Vascular Disease – Deep Vein Thrombosis Nursing Mnemonic (HIS Leg Might Fall off)
Vascular disease – Raynaud’s symptoms Nursing Mnemonic (COLD HAND)
Vasospasm Therapy Nursing Mnemonic (Triple H Therapy)
VEAL CHOP Nursing Mnemonic (Fetal Accelerations and Decelerations) (VEAL CHOP)
Vitamins – Fat Soluble Nursing Mnemonic (All Dogs Eat Kibble)
Vitamins – Water Soluble Nursing Mnemonic (Birth Control)
Walkers Nursing Mnemonic (Wandering Wilma Always Late)
Who Needs Dialysis Nursing Mnemonic (AEIOU)