Any cancer- or treatment-related condition requiring rapid attention might be widely referred to as an oncologic emergency. Oncologic emergencies can be deceptive and take months to manifest, while others show up suddenly and result in severe death and morbidity. Early detection of these emergencies and prompt action can increase chances of survival and enhance quality of life. This course contains the core conditions of:

• Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
• Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Excretion (SIADH)
• Bleeding and Thrombosis
• Superior Vena Cava Syndrome (SVCS)
• Cardiac Tamponade
• Increased Intracranial Pressure (IICP)
• Pleural Effusion (PE)

Nurses play a key role in the prevention and management of OEs. The Oncological Emergencies – Additional Conditions course will equip nurses with the knowledge they need to:

• Identify patients at greatest risk of OEs
• Institute possible preventative measures
• Recognize the early signs and symptoms of the OE
• Initiate prompt intervention

Course Objectives

By the end of this course you will be able to:

• Define each oncological emergency (OE)
• Discuss normal anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology related to the OE
• Discuss risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis for each OE including any standardized tools available
• Explain the principles of treatment for each OE
• Discuss the role of the nurse in assessment and management of each OE

Course Syllabus

This course consists of five self-directed eLearning modules with one case study per module.

For each case study you will apply your knowledge for assessing risk of development of each OE, recognizing signs and symptoms, initiating and monitoring management and learning about nursing considerations.

Although you can complete the various components of the course at your own pace, the course must be completed within 8 weeks from the time you register for the course.

Download the full Course Syllabus

Eligibility

Available to all regulated health care professionals working along the cancer care continuum.

Payment must be received before you have access to the course. For more information, please visit our Cancellation & No Show Policy.

Participants can pay for this course online with a credit card, or send a cheque to:

de Souza Institute

c/o Toronto General Hospital

200 Elizabeth Street,

RFE 3-440

Toronto, ON   M5G 2C4