Sample interview questions: Can you explain your understanding of emergency pediatric oncologic care?
Sample answer:
Emergency pediatric oncologic care encompasses the prompt diagnosis and management of life-threatening conditions and complications in children and adolescents with cancer.
- Acute leukemia: Prompt recognition of signs and symptoms such as fatigue, pallor, bleeding, and fever is crucial. Immediate initiation of supportive care measures such as blood transfusions, platelet transfusions, and antibiotics is essential.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) emergencies: CNS involvement in pediatric cancer can present as seizures, increased intracranial pressure, or spinal cord compression. Rapid assessment and interventions like anticonvulsants, steroids, and emergency neurosurgical consultation are vital.
- Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS): A metabolic emergency occurring due to the rapid lysis of cancer cells. TLS can result in hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, and renal failure. Aggressive hydration, electrolyte correction, and dialysis may be required.
- Sepsis and febrile neutropenia: Children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy are at increased risk of infection due to neutropenia. Early identification of sepsis and initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics, as well as supportive care measures, are essential.
- Airway compromise: Respiratory emergencies such as superior vena cava syndrome or airway obstruction due to mediastinal masses requ… Read full answer
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