Transcript Slide 1

North of England Cancer
Network
Acute Oncology Initial
Management Guidelines
Document Control
Prepared
By
Issue
Date
Approved By
Review
Date
Version
UKCRG
20/05/12
Acute
Oncology
May
2014
5.1
Contributors
Comments/
Amendment
UKCRG &
Adapted to include
NECN Acute
local variation
Oncology Group
Adopted with Permission from
United Kingdom Chemotherapy Redesign Group (UKCRG)
1
Contents
Introduction
P.3
General comments on the management of chemotherapy toxicities
P.4
Generic management guidelines for chemotherapy toxicities
P.5
General principles in the management of patients admitted with chemotherapy toxicity
P.6
Guideline 1
Suspected Neutropenic Sepsis
P.7 -8
Guideline 2
Nausea
P.9 -10
Guideline 3
Vomiting
P.11-13
Guideline 4
Constipation
P.14
Guideline 5
Diarrhoea
P.15-16
Guideline 6
Fatigue
P.17
Guideline 7
Dyspneoa / Shortness of Breath
P.18- 19
Guideline 8
Chest Pain
P.20
Guideline 9
Suspected Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression (MSCC)
P.21
Guideline 10
Mucositis / Stomatitis / Oesophagitis
P.22-23
Guideline 11
Arthralgia / Myalgia
P.24
Guideline 12
Skin Rash
P.25 - 26
Guideline 13
Bleeding and / or Bruising
P.27
Guideline 14
Palmar Plantar Erythrodysesthesia (PPE)
P.28
Guideline 15
Extravasation
P.29
Guideline 16 A
Anaphylaxis
P.30-31
Guideline 16 B
Hypersensitivity / Allergic Reaction
P.32
Guideline 17
Radiation Pneumonitis
P.33
Guideline 18
Superior Vena Cava Obstruction (SVCO)
P.34
Guideline 19
Malignant Pericardial Effusion
P.35-36
Guideline 20
Hypomanganesaemia
P.37
Guideline 21
Carcinomatosis Lymphangitis
P.38
Guideline 22
Hypercalcaemia of Malignancy
P.39
Guideline 23
Abdominal Ascites
P.40
Guideline 24
Pulmonary Effusion
P.41
Guideline 25
Centralvenous Access Devices (CVAD) Problem Management
P.42-43
Acknowledgements
P. 44
2
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Introduction
Background
In response to the publication of the August 2009 NCAG report and the national Acute Oncology and
Chemotherapy Peer Review quality standards, this document provides national guidelines on the initial
assessment and immediate management of Acute Oncology patients, i.e., patients phoning or presenting with
an acute problem, demonstrating symptoms deemed as having been caused by:
• Systemic treatment of cancer (which includes chemotherapy),
• Radiotherapy,
• Malignant disease,
• A previously undiagnosed cancer where the acute management staff decide that an urgent oncology
assessment is required.
It should be emphasised that this Guideline is intended to support emergency and oncological staff in the initial
assessment and management phases only, for urgent onward referral as appropriate, and its intended focus is
on the first 24 hour period of receipt of a phone call or emergency presentation. Please refer to the Trust’s
Acute Oncology Referral Guidelines on how to access advice outside the scope of this guidance.
By intention each protocol contained within this guideline:
• Is a single-page “see-and-treat” guide, and does not go into the detail of ongoing management of the problem
beyond the initial 24-hour period, and
• Is not prescriptive. Whilst drug names may be referenced within each protocol, this is offered as a guide only
as it is acknowledged that locally variation may apply.
To aid in this urgent assessment, each protocol follows the RAG (red, amber, green) format and quick reference
assessment which is in line with the “Oncology/Haematology 24-Hour Telephone Helpline Protocol” published
in 2010 and the Canadian ED and Acuity Scale Triage System which was designed to ensure that all patients with
cancer should be reviewed within 15 minutes.
Protocols 1 – 15 focus on the management of treatment toxicities and Procotols 16 onwards on the
identification and management elements of immediate treatment.
Intended Audience
This guideline is intended for use by the following healthcare professionals:
• Primary Care
• Those within Acute Trusts who receive telephone enquiries or manage presentations for acute oncology
patients
• Patient Groups
• SHOs in A&E
• Those hospitals which do not on-site emergency departments
Please refer to the Index on the following pages for further information regarding the full contents of this
Guideline.
Glossary to be added to the back pages, to include:AVPU
PS = Performance Status
FBC = Full blood count
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
GENERAL COMMENTS ON MANAGEMENT OF CHEMOTHERAPY TOXICITIES
Chemotherapy is given at the highest tolerated dose. This means there is a fine line between therapeutic dose and
toxic dose.
Patients should know what chemotherapy drugs they are on, have written information about their chemotherapy
and have an alert card with the chemotherapy regimen stated.
Patients may be on targeted biological therapies or trial therapy, which may present with unexpected or unknown
side effects.
All patients on chemotherapy are at risk of rapid deterioration, neutropenic sepsis and the development of
additional toxicities to the one they are complaining of.
It is important to ask about the occurrence of all common chemotherapy toxicities in addition to the initial
complaint, as several toxicities occurring together needs closer management.
All licensed anticancer drugs have specific toxicities - details on chemo prescription (MPC) or Summary of Product
Characteristics (http://www.medicines.org.uk/emc).
If you are worried about the patient or their ability to give an accurate history, then medical review and follow up
phone calls are essential. In some cases admission may be necessary to fully assess patients (even though outwith
admission criteria).
If a patient sounds unwell from chemotherapy toxicities, it is sensible to arrange oncological/haematological
review or admission to hospital rather than GP review, when possible. If patient may have neutropenic sepsis then
arrange immediate urgent admission to the nearest appropriate hospital.
GP and community teams are not experts in chemotherapy toxicity management so if asking a GP to review, it is
important to speak to the GP outlining what is required, what to look for and who to contact if further advice is
needed.
See specific guidelines for inpatient management of each chemotherapy toxicity.
Chemotherapy toxicity –
Initial Toxicity Assessment (NB always ask about all toxicities or use oncology/haematology helpline assessment
tool)
Chemotherapy drugs – names and last date of chemotherapy (NB may be on tablets)
General condition and ability to carry out normal function at home
Fever – admit urgently if risk of neutropenic sepsis
Chest pain – admit urgently to hospital with on-site cardiology. Stop chemotherapy
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Sore mouth
Sore/red hands and feet
Rash
Breathlessness
Bleeding or bruising
Neurosensory/motor
Signs of dehydration e.g., decreased urine output, fever, thirst, dry mucous membranes, weakness, dizziness,
confusion
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Generic Management Guidelines for Chemotherapy Toxicities
(see specific algorithms for management of each toxicity)
Grade 1 (Green)
Mild
Grade 2 (Amber)
Moderate
Grade 3 (Red)
Severe
Grade 4 (Red)
Life threatening
Also consider factors which lower threshold for inpatient admission:
Symptoms needing urgent admission – temperature, chest pain, bleeding?
Might be neutropenic?
More than one Grade 2 toxicity?
Poor historian/ difficult to assess on phone?
Compliance of patient / ability to understand and follow instructions
Grade 2 toxicity not settling despite maximal outpatient efforts?
NB Neutropenic sepsis needs
urgent admission and
immediate iv broad spectrum
antibiotics/fluids.
•Do not get GP out first
•Do not wait for FBC before
giving antibiotics
•See specific guideline for
further detail
Becoming weak/dehydrated?
ACTION: Grade 1
ACTION: Grade 2
ACTION: Grade 3 and 4
See specific toxicity
guidelines
See specific toxicity
guidelines
Admit for assessment, investigation and parenteral
management
Advise patient to
phone back if getting
worse
Assess for admission if two
grade 2 toxicities or
toxicity not settling
despite initial advice
See specific toxicity guidelines and sections on
management of inpatients with chemotherapy
toxicities on page 3
Document call and
advice given
Advise patient to phone
back if getting worse
Phone/review patient
within 24 hours to ensure
settling
Document call and advice
given
If not needing admission, ensure FBC, U+E checked,
good oral intake and daily contact with patient until
improving, with low threshold for admission
Document the call and the advice given and inform
specialist team
NB – rapid deterioration possible. Chemotherapy
toxicities are reversible but need aggressive
management
Patients on oral chemotherapy should be told to stop
taking treatment until they have been assessed by
Acute Oncology Team
Please ensure that your Acute Oncology Team are informed of the patients admission as soon as possible
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
GENERAL PRINCIPLES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS ADMITTED WITH CHEMOTHERAPY TOXICITY
These are general principles only. Please see specific toxicity guidelines for guidance on each toxicity and
manage each patient according to their condition, concomitant medications and other medical problems.
Chemotherapy toxicities can make a patient rapidly unwell but should all be reversible if managed rapidly
and appropriately.
Aggressive management (usually including HDU/ITU) is appropriate if unstable, even in the context of
advanced cancer (discuss with specialist or on call oncology/haematology team if unsure).
Neutropenia can occur any time after chemotherapy.
Review concomitant medications and consider stopping concomitant medications that may affect renal
function/potentiate hypotension (e.g. ACE-inhibitors, diuretics) if unwell or hypotensive and benefits
outweigh the risks of doing so. These drugs increase risk of renal problems e.g. with Gentamicin.
Establish intravenous access (or utilise indwelling lines if appropriately trained to do so) and hydrate
according to clinical condition. Monitor fluid balance with cumulative fluid balance chart and daily weights
in addition to clinical condition and bloods, particularly if low albumin.
Daily medical review and daily bloods (watch for neutropenic sepsis/ dehydration).
Contact specialist team if patient not settling.
Escalate care (e.g. HDU/ITU) if patient becoming haemodynamically compromised/drowsy/shut down
(discuss with specialist team if unsure of appropriateness).
Avoid paracetamol/antipyretics if neutropenic as they may mask signs of sepsis.
If patient is on a trial, the trials team should be contacted about the admission.
Inform local specialist team providing cancer treatment as adjustments to the subsequent cycle may be
required.
Patients admitted whilst on a course of oral chemotherapy, should have the oral chemotherapy withheld
until they have been reviewed by specialist team and it has been confirmed it is safe to continue treatment.
All patients admitted with chemotherapy toxicity require medical review prior to further treatment. They
may need dose delays/adjustments to next cycle of chemotherapy. The acute oncology/haematology team
should annotate the admission into the patients oncology/haematology notes and inform the oncology team
treating the patient.
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 1. SUSPECTED NEUTROPENIC SEPSIS Requires URGENT medical assessment/interview!
Patients on chemotherapy or immunocompromised patients (HIV, known immune deficiency, malignancy) with or
without a fever are at higher risk of serious problems if neutrophil count falls to <1 x 10 9/L. At or below this level serious
infections may be fatal.
Triage assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6/52 chemotherapy
Assume:
Neutropenic Sepsis until proven otherwise
Observations: Temp, Pulse, BP, RR, O2 sats, Alert Voice Pain Unresponsive
(AVPU) and assess urine output
Commence: Early Warning Score chart
I.V.Access:
Blood rapidly to Lab
Blood Cultures, FBC, Coag, U&Es, Gluc, LFTs, Ca2+, PO4-, Mg2+, Urate, CRP
Resuscitation Management:
Severe Sepsis?
Yes
• Triage Red
• Resuscitation room
• Optimise haemodynamics & O2
delivery
• Initiate 1st line antibiotics
• Transfer HDU/ICU
Time !
Altered mental state or
Hypoxia ( O2 sats< 94%) or
Shock (Sys BP < 90 mmHg)
15 minutes
No
Medical Assessment
Identify: Potential sources of infection
Rx:
Presenting Complaint/Co-morbidity
Tx:
CXR,ECG,ABGs Lactate, Urinalysis, Swabs
Commence NS Regime:
• No delay for lab confirmation
• Supplemental O2
• Initiate 1st line antibiotics
• 1L 0.9%Saline over 1-2 hours
• Admit to appropriate area
• Differentiate between neutropenia
and neutropenic sepsis
• Supportive measures
30 minutes
Yes
Early Sepsis ?
Temp> 380c or < 360c or
Pulse > 90 or
RR > 20
No
Consider admission if neutropenic &
low grade pyrexia
Lab Confirmation
Neutrophils < 1.0 x 109/L
Regardless of overall WCC
45 minutes
Discharge:
• Only if physiologically stable
• When co-morbidity treated
• Neutropenic sepsis advice
Ist line antibiotics in Neutropenic Sepsis
As per local trust policy?
60 minutes
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
KEY PRINCIPLES
Patients within six weeks of chemotherapy should be considered to be neutropenic until otherwise demonstrated. If the
patient presents in a non specialist environment, contact must be made immediately to the acute oncology team at the
treating unit.
Door to needle time for first antibiotics should be less than one hour.
Patient should be closely monitored and frequently reassessed, and subsequent treatment should occur in an environment
where appropriate skills and expertise are available. If a patient continues to deteriorate despite initial treatment their
condition should be discussed urgently with a senior clinician.
DAY TWO
DAY ONE – Day of Admission
;;;;Early Warning Score Chart
;;
Monitoring
Every 15 minutes and continuous monitoring
EWS Chart x 6 daily (every 4 hours); Daily FBC
Chemotherapy Drugs
Discontinue on admission; safe disposal
Do not recommence - requires oncology review
Antimicrobials
;
Do
Alternative antimicrobials:
Improving?
Assess if all antibiotics still required and route of
administration
Unresponsive fever/deterioration at 48 hours?
Progress to 2nd line Antibiotics
Clear evidence of specific focus of infection?
Liaise with microbiology prior to altering regimen
;;
Additional antimicrobials:
;;Consider viral and fungal infections,
Clinically evident serious soft tissue infection, indwelling
catheter infection or MRSA +ve
liaise with microbiology
Therapeutic monitoring/dose adjustment
Liaise with Pharmacology &Microbiology
Cultures
Blood-central lines and peripherally, sputum, urine,
Swabs-throat & skin lesions
;;
Liaise with microbiology re interim results
Re-culture patient before changing antimicrobials
Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
Aggressive fluid replacement in dehydration
Hourly urine output measurement
Replace Na+ and K+ judiciously
Early critical care management if deterioration
Maintenance fluids as required
Continue to monitor electrolytes daily
;;
Use of GCSF – According
; to local policy
Neutropenia (NPL < 1.0 x 1012L )
(avoid if pegfilgrastim use < 3/52)
Severe Sepsis (any evidence of
organ failure) or Suspected
invasive fungal infection
Fever persistent> 48 hours after 1st line antibiotics
Discuss with micobiology, move to 2nd line antibiotics
8
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 2
Nausea
Nausea is the sensation of being about to vomit. Acute chemotherapy induced nausea usually presents within the first
24hours of receiving treatment. Delayed nausea may present any time after the first 24hours and continues for up to 6 or
7 days after treatment
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to local guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR, O2 sats,
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E ,CRP, LFTs, & bone profile
Questions:
•Frequency and nature of nausea with or with out vomiting?
•Assess bowel movements; Any symptoms that suggest constipation? Any Diarrhoea?
•What food and fluids have you been taking over last few days?
•Any evidence of reflux / gastritis?
•Any signs of dehydration e.g. decreased urine output, fever, thirst, dry mucous membranes etc
•What is the underlying cancer diagnosis?
•What is the extent of the disease ? – e.g. known metastases to brain, bone,
liver etc
•What medication is the patient taking and has there been any recent changes?
•Is the patient currently receiving chemotherapy? Radiotherapy? ( especially to Brain, liver, GI Tract)
•Increasing abdominal pain?
Grade 1 (Green)
Loss of appetite without
alteration in eating habits
Grade 2 (Amber)
Oral intake decreased
without significant weight
loss, dehydration or
malnutrition
Grade 3 (Red)
Inadequate oral caloric or
fluid intake; tube feeding,
TPN, or hospitalization
indicated
Grade 4 (Red)
No oral intake.
Life threatening
consequences
ACTION: Grade 3
ACTION: Grade 1 and Grade 2
Review prescribed antiemetic medication make sure
dose / route and frequency are appropriate.
Assess patient compliance
When cause has been clearly identified, change
antiemetic in line with local policy directions
Admit for assessment, IV fluids and electrolyte
replacement as appropriate
Fully investigate cause e.g. disease related e.g., brain
or liver metastases, hypercalcaemia, obstruction.
Medication related e.g. chemotherapy, opiates etc
Advise self help measures:
Frequent small sips of fluid, eat small amounts often,
try ginger biscuits, ginger / mint tea
Prescribe antiemetic as appropriate to above
Encourage patient to make contact again if
symptoms persist or worsen.
Discontinue Oral Chemo until reviewed by Acute
Oncology team.
Inform AOS Team !
Phone / review the patient in 24 hours
Inform AOS Team!
9
DRAFT /GMCN/PJJ/29/06/2011/V2.0
Nausea
Initial assessment
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats.
Investigations:
Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, bone profile, Blood cultures and CRP if pyrexial.
Assess for evidence of dehydration, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia ,poor renal function.
Abdominal X-ray may be appropriate if there is concern there may be bowel obstruction
Full history and examination (avoid rectal examination until neutropenia excluded)
History to include:
other chemotherapy toxicities if appropriate
Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
Current medication
Assessment to include:
Fluid balance status and signs of systemic infection
Physical examination
Initial management of a patient with Chemotherapy-induced Nausea
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to local guidelines.
•If there is clinical and/or biochemical evidence of dehydration consider measures to address this such as encouraging
oral fluids or starting intravenous fluids
•Review drugs for potential contributory medications – e.g. opiates and consider adjusting the dose of these if
appropriate
• Interrupt oral chemotherapy until reviewed by treating team
Management of Breakthrough Nausea / Vomiting
If patients develop acute nausea / vomiting (within 24 hours of last chemotherapy dose), which is refractory to
breakthrough medication already supplied, they should be increased to increase to the next treatment band in the
antiemetic ladder. See Page 13 for NECN Chemotherapy Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) guideline
If patients develop delayed nausea / vomiting (> 24hours after last chemotherapy dose), which is refractory to
breakthrough medication already supplied, add additional treatment from the following (using the next available agent
on the list):
•Metoclopramide
•Dexamethasone
•Ondansetron (or another 5HT antagonist, n.b. only effective for first 5 days after chemotherapy)
•Levomepromazine
•Cyclizine (stop metoclopramide)
•Prochloperazine
•Lorazepam
•Nabilone
•Haloperidol
10
DRAFT /GMCN/PJJ/29/06/2011/V2.0
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 3
Vomiting
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to local guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR, O2 sats,
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E ,CRP, LFTs, & bone profile
Questions:
•Frequency and nature of nausea with or with out vomiting?
•Assess bowel movements; Any symptoms that suggest constipation? Any Diarrhoea?
•What food and fluids have you been taking over last few days?
•Any evidence of reflux / gastritis?
•Any signs of dehydration e.g. decreased urine output, fever, thirst, dry mucous membranes etc
•What is the underlying cancer diagnosis?
•What is the extent of the disease ? – e.g. known metastases to brain, bone, liver etc
•What medication is the patient taking and has there been any recent changes?
•Is the patient currently receiving chemotherapy? Radiotherapy? ( especially to Brain, liver GI Tract)
•Increasing abdominal pain?
Grade 1 (Green)
1 - 2 episodes (separated
by 5 minutes) in 24 hrs
Review prescribed
antiemetic medication
make sure dose / route
and frequency are
appropriate.
Assess patient
compliance and
reinforce
Ask patient to monitor
for signs of dehydration
Advise self help
measures:
Frequent small sips of
fluid, eat small amounts
often, try ginger
biscuits, ginger / mint
tea
Encourage patient to
make contact again if
symptoms persist or
worsen.
Phone / review the
patient in 24 hours
Grade 2 (Amber)
3 - 5 episodes (separated by 5
minutes) in 24 hrs
Grade 3 (Red)
>6 episodes (separated by 5
minutes) in 24 hrs; tube
feeding, TPN or
hospitalization indicated
Grade 4 (Red)
>10 episodes in 24 hrs
(separated by 5 minutes)
Life-threatening
consequences; urgent
intervention indicated
As for grade 1
ACTION: Grade 3
Advise to get GP review
consider changing
antiemetic including
route of admin.
Admit for assessment, IV fluids and electrolyte
replacement as appropriate
Encourage patient to
make contact again if
symptoms persist or
worsen
Fully investigate cause e.g. disease related e.g., brain or
liver metastases, hpyercalcaemia, obstruction.
Medication related e.g. chemotherapy, opiates etc
Prescribe antiemetic as appropriate to above
Inform AOS Team !
If symptoms worsen or
are associated with
other toxicities consider
admission.
Discontinue oral chemotherapy until reviewed by Acute
Oncology Team.
Inform AOS Team
11
Vomiting
Initial assessment
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats.
Investigations:
Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, bone profile, Blood cultures and CRP if pyrexial.
Assess for evidence of dehydration, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia ,poor renal function.
Abdominal X-ray may be appropriate if there is concern there may be bowel obstruction
Full history and examination (avoid rectal examination until neutropenia excluded)
History to include:
other chemotherapy toxicities if appropriate
Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
Current medication
Assessment to include:
Fluid balance status and signs of systemic infection
Physical examination
Initial management of a patient with Chemotherapy-induced Nausea
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to local guidelines.
•If there is clinical and/or biochemical evidence of dehydration consider measures to address this such as encouraging
oral fluids or starting intravenous fluids
•Review drugs for potential contributory medications – e.g. opiates and consider adjusting the dose of these if
appropriate
Interrupt oral chemotherapy as appropriate until reviewed by treating team
Management of Breakthrough Nausea / Vomiting
If patients develop acute nausea / vomiting (within 24 hours of last chemotherapy dose), which is refractory to
breakthrough medication already supplied, they should be increased to increase to the next treatment band in the
antiemetic ladder. See Page 13 for NECN Chemotherapy Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) guideline
If patients develop delayed nausea / vomiting (> 24hours after last chemotherapy dose), which is refractory to
breakthrough medication already supplied, add additional treatment from the following (using the next available agent
on the list):
•Metoclopramide
•Dexamethasone
•Ondansetron (or another 5HT antagonist, n.b. only effective in the first 5 days after chemotherapy)
•Levomepromazine
•Cyclizine (stop metoclopramide)
•Prochloperazine
•Lorazepam
•Nabilone
•Haloperidol
12
All patients receiving chemotherapy will have been prescribed anti-emetics according
to the emetogenic potential of the chemotherapy prescribed. The drugs usually used
are shown below.
13
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 4. CONSTIPATION
Irregular and infrequent or difficult evacuation of the bowels; can be a symptom of intestinal obstruction or diverticulitis
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6/52 of chemotherapy or disease-related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis
If present, this should be managed according to local guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR, O2 sats
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E ,CRP, abdominal X-Ray
Questions:
• When did bowels/stoma move last?
• What is normal bowel habit?
• What medication are you taking and has there been any recent changes?
• What food and fluids have you been taking over last few days? Also consider:
• Any nausea or vomiting?
• Increasing abdominal pain?
Grade 1 (Green)
No bowel movement in
the last 24 hours
Grade 2 (Amber)
No bowel movement in the
last 48 hours
Also consider:
• Hard, dry stool?
• Increased anorexia?
• Decreased fluid intake?
ACTION: Grade 1 and Grade 2
• Dietary advice including good fluid intake
• Stop or change constipating drugs
• Consider use of laxatives e.g. Movicol or Laxido-type
product
• Encourage patient to make contact if symptoms
persist or worsen
Grade 3 (Red)
No bowel movement in the
last 72 hours
Grade 4 (Red)
Paralytic ileus – no bowel
movement in the last 96
hours
ACTION: Grade 3
ACTION: Grade 4
Review prescribed stool
softeners and laxatives
and concomitant
medication which may
affect bowels
May be associated with:•Severe abdominal pain
and/or distension?
•Nausea and Vomiting
•Faecal smelling vomit?
•Rigid abdominal
distension?
•Recent abdominal
surgery?
Dietary advice including
good fluid intake
Consider admission for
further management if
associated with:Abdominal pain
Nausea vomiting
Surgical review if
• If there is clinical and/or biochemical evidence of
indicated
dehydration consider measures to address this such as
encouraging oral fluids or starting intravenous fluids
• If no evidence of bowel obstruction consider laxatives – for example Movicol or Laxidotype product. Stool softeners may be useful – for example docusate sodium
• Review drugs for potential contributory medications – e.g., opiates and consider
adjusting the dose of these if appropriate
• Rectal intervention may be considered once neutropenia and thrombocytopenia have
been excluded
Admit for further
management/
senior medical and/or
surgical review
I.V. access and fluid
replacement
Analgesia
Emesis control
Medication review
Monitoring
14
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 5. DIARRHOEA
A disorder characterised by frequent and watery bowel movements. Grading is relative to normal baseline function.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6/52 of chemotherapy or disease-related immunosuppression. These patients are
often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should be
managed according to local guidelines
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats,early warning score
Investigations: Urgent - Full Blood Count , U&E ,CRP, abdominal X-Ray, stool sample for C&S
Questions:
• What chemotherapy is the patient on and when was the last treatment/tablet?
• Are they on any of the following chemotherapy drugs:CAPECITABINE (Xeloda) tablets,
IRINOTECAN (Campto),
ERLOTINIB (Tarceva)?
Please see specific DRUG INFORMATION SHEET in addition to general diarrhoea guidance
• How often do the bowels usually move?
• How many stools a day is the patient passing or how much stoma output is there above normal amount?
• Are stools/stoma output formed, loose or watery? Any faecal incontinence or urgency? Nocturnal movements?
• Is there any abdominal pain e.g., cramping pains coming in waves?
• For how many days has the patient had diarrhoea? Is it interfering with activities of daily living?
• Are they able to eat and drink normally? Are they passing plenty of clear urine?
• Do they have any other chemotherapy related toxicities, e.g., N/V, mouth ulcers or red hands/feet?
• Any recent antibiotics or recent hospital admissions?
• Have they taken any laxatives or anti-sickness medication or any anti-diarrhoeal medication in the last 24 hours? What?
Grade 1 (Green)
Grade 2 (Amber)
Grade 3 (Red)
Grade 4 (Red)
Increase to 2-3 bowel
movements a day over
pre-treatment baseline
or mild increase in
stoma output
Increase of 4-6 bowel
movements a day over pretreatment baseline, moderate
increase in stoma output.
Moderate cramping
Nocturnal stools
Increase of 7-9 bowel movements
a day over pre-treatment
baseline or incontinence.
Severe increase in stoma output.
Severe cramping
Nocturnal stools
Interfering with ADL
Increase to > 10 bowel
movements a day over pretreatment baseline
and/or grossly bloody
diarrhoea
and/or need for parenteral
support
Action for Grades 1 and 2:
Review medication STOP DRUGS that may be contributing,
this includes chemotherapy drugs e.g.
5FU/Capecitabine/Tarceva, until Acute Oncology Team
review
• Haematology – discuss with haematology team
• Oncology - Consider Loperamide (Imodium) initially. If
ineffective consider Codeine Phosphate. Reduce/stop
antidiarrheal after 12-24 hours free of diarrhoea
• Review any other chemotherapy toxicities according to
guidelines
• Increase oral fluids (2-3 L per day). Avoid caffeinated
drinks and alcohol
• Diet: suggest avoiding milk, high-fat foods, raw fruit and
vegetables, beans, fibrous vegetables, cereals
• Ensure anal area is kept clean and intact by regular
washing and application of barrier cream
• Phone daily until patient improves. Patient must phone if
diarrhoea worsening
• Grade 2 for >24 hours despite max antidiarrheal or if
other symptoms e.g. temperature, nausea/vomiting,
mouth ulcers, or clinical concerns
ACTION for Grades 3 and Grade 4:
Admit patient urgently and follow guidance on page 3
(unless clinical review suggests no concerns, well
hydrated, has not yet had antidiarrhoeals and able to
review patient daily). Change to antidiarrhoeal
medication
Inform AOS Team!
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
DIARRHOEA
Initial assessment
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats ,early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, CRP, abdominal X-Ray, stool sample for C&S
History to include:• What chemotherapy is the patient on and when was their last treatment/tablet?
• How often do the bowels usually move?
• How many stools a day is the patient passing or how much stoma output is there above normal amount?
• Are stools /stoma output formed, loose or watery? Any faecal incontinence or urgency? Nocturnal movements?
• Is there any abdominal pain e.g. cramping pains coming in waves?
• For how many days has the patient had diarrhoea so far? Is it interfering with activities of daily living
• Are they able to eat and drink normally? Are you passing plenty of clear urine?
• Do they have any other chemotherapy related toxicities e.g. nausea and/or vomiting ,mouth ulcers, red hands/feet.
• Any recent antibiotics or recent hospital admissions?
• Have they taken any laxatives or anti-sickness medication or any anti-diarrhoeal medication in the last 24 hrs? What?
• Are you on any of the following chemotherapy drugs:CAPECITABINE (Xeloda) tablets
IRINOTECAN (Campto)
ERLOTINIB (Tarceva)?
Please see specific DRUG INFORMATION SHEET in addition to general diarrhoea guidance
• Assessment of fluid balance status (BP, pulse, fluid intake, signs of dehydration)
• Check bloods – renal function, FBC, CRP, blood cultures if signs of systemic sepsis
• Full physical examination
Initial Management
• Consider infective diarrhoea
• Send stool urgently
• Inform microbiology personally and discuss management with microbiologist
• If haematology patient or strong suspicion of infective diarrhoea, withhold anti-diarrhoeal medication until stool result
available
• Isolate until infection excluded
• Pyrexia (temp > 38⁰C) - start neutropenic sepsis antibiotic policy immediately as per policy – do not wait for FBC
• Stop 5-FU/Capecitebine chemotherapy until reviewed by oncology team
• Immediate IV fluid resuscitation. Replace fluid and electrolyte losses. Remember high volume fluid loss from diarrhoea.
• Adjust ongoing fluids according to fluid balance status and renal function
• Stop ACE-inhibitors/ diuretics/ NSAIDs
Antidiarrheal
• Haematology - Discuss with haematology team on call before commencing antidiarrheal
• Oncology -Loperamide (Imodium) 4mg initially then 2mg after each loose stool. (maximum16mg per 24 hours)
• If Loperamide ineffective, then can try Codeine Phosphate 30-60mg every 4 hours (maximum 240mg/24 hours) instead
of or in addition
• Reduce/stop antidiarrheal after 12-24 hours free of diarrhoea
• If Grade 4 – Consider Octreotide 500mcg by sc injection on admission, then Octreotide 300mcg tid and immediate IV
broad spectrum antibiotic (even if afebrile). Withhold if not on maximal antidiarrheal prior to admission but review
every 24 hours.
• Do not withhold antidiarrheal for more than 12-24 hours without thorough senior medical review
• Consider Hyoscine Butylbromide (Buscopan) if abdominal spasms
• Nil by mouth (except sips) if abdominal pain or distension or abnormal AXR
• Give antibiotics according to local policy (eg for C-Diff or neutropenic sepsis)
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 6. FATIGUE
Fatigue is a subjective unpleasant symptom which incorporates total body feelings ranging from tiredness to
exhaustion creating an unrelenting overall condition that interferes with the individuals' ability to function to their
normal capacity.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression These Patients
are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this
should be managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU (Alert Voice Pain Unresponsive), early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E,G&S,CRP, consider blood cultures
Questions:
• Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
• Is the patient receiving or post chemotherapy/radiotherapy?
• How many days has the patient been feeling like this?
• Does the patient have any pain and what are the pain killers?
• Are they able to eat and/or drink?
• Are they short of breath?
• Are they able to mobilise – ambulant – performance status?
• Are they passing usual amounts of urine and are bowels functioning normally?
• Patient mood?
Grade 1 (Green)
Increased fatigue but not
altering normal activities
Grade 2 (Amber)
Grade 3 (Red)
Moderate or causing difficulty Severe or loss of ability to
performing some activities
perform some activities
Grade 4 (Red)
Bedridden or disabling
Action: Grades 1 and 2
Action: Grade 3
Action: Grade 4
Ensure the patient is not Neutropenic/
Pancytopenic
Ensure the patient is not
neutropenic/pancytopenic
and treat accordingly
Ensure the patient is not
neutropenic/
pancytopenic and treat
accordingly
Encourage diet and fluids
Rest
Advise to contact the helpline if symptoms
persist or worsen or if they develop any other
problems/toxicities
Inform the Acute oncology team who will contact
the next day to assess patient
Admit if evidence of
- Dehydration
- Infection
- Poor oral intake
- Other chemotherapy
toxicities
Contact treating oncology/
haematology team to get
advice on continuing
anticancer therapy and
consider possible disease
progression
Admit for
- Monitoring and on going
assessment
- Management according
to symptoms/blood
results
Contact treating oncology/
haematology team to get
advice on continuing
anticancer therapy and
consider possible disease
progression
17
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 7. DYSPNOEA/SHORTNESS OF BREATH
Difficulty breathing may include symptoms such as wheezing, choking, or a feeling of not getting enough air into the
lungs.
Dyspnoea indicates a conscious appreciation of increased work done during breathing, principle factors in SOB are an
increased work of breathing, increased ventilatory drive, impaired muscle function.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression. These
Observations:
Investigations:
patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If
present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines
Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, sputum C&S, CXR, Blood cultures, PJPs and CRP if pyrexial. Consider
ABGs. Arrange CTPA/VQ investigations to rule out Pulmonary Embolism
Questions:
• Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
• Cardinal questions related to breathlessness
• Differential diagnosis would include chest Infection, pulmonary embolism (PE), disease progression (ie consolidation/
pleural effusion/superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO)
Grade 1 (Green)
No new symptoms
Grade 2 (Amber)
Dyspnoea on exertion
Grade 3 (Red)
Dyspnoea at normal levels of
activity
Grade 4 (Red)
Dyspnoea at rest or requiring
ventilatory support
Action: Grade 2
Action: Grades 3 and 4
Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
Ensure the patient is not neutropenic – treat
immediately with antibiotics if neutropenic sepsis
suspected
Enquire regarding signs of sepsis /
productive cough (Escalate to Grade
Red as appropriate)
Anaemia
Enquire if history of underlying chest
complaints e.g. asthma, COPD – Advise
patients around usual management of
exacerbations advise to discuss with
GP or other associated health
professional managing this condition
Admit if evidence of
- Desaturation
- Infection
- Other chemotherapy toxicities
Manage in accordance with trust local guidelines
depending upon differential diagnosis
Inform the Acute Oncology team of the patient’s
admission
Advise to contact the chemotherapy
helpline if symptoms persist or worsen
or if they develop any other problems/
toxicities
Inform the Acute oncology team who
will contact the next day to assess
patient
Pneumonitis may be drug-related.
Discuss with Acute Oncology Team
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
DYSPNOEA
Initial assessment
Observations:
Investigations:
Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, sputum C&S, CXR, Blood cultures, PJPs and CRP if pyrexial.
Consider ABGs.
Arrange CTPA/VQ investigations to rule out Pulmonary Embolism
History to include:
• Other chemotherapy toxicities
• Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
• Cardinal questions related to breathlessness
• Differential diagnosis would include Chest Infection, pulmonary embolism (PE), disease progression (i.e. consolidation
pleural effusion/ superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO)
• Assessment of fluid balance status and signs of systemic infection
Initial management
Neutropenia
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis
If present, this should be managed according to approve guidelines
Management of SVCO
(Guideline 24)
Commence Dexamethasone 16mg daily orally (or IV / SC if swallowing difficulties) . Insertion of a SVC stent will be the
most effective initial treatment in most patients.
Refer to Acute Oncology Team to consider urgent treatment with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy if stenting is
not possible.
Management of dyspnoea in accordance with local trust guidelines depending upon differential diagnosis made
Pneumonitis may be drug-related. Discuss with Acute Oncology Team
On-going Management
Ensure Oncology team are aware of findings related to this admission to hospital with dyspnoea, as this may impact upon
future anti-cancer treatment decisions.
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 8. CHEST PAIN
Requires URGENT medical assessment/interview!
There is an urgent need to diagnose the cause of any patient presenting with chest pain to ensure that serious and lifethreatening conditions are not missed.
Pain may result from a wide range of causes including physical over-exertion and muscle strains
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6/52 of chemotherapy specifically patients currently receiving 5Fluorouracil
(5FU), Capecitabine and UFT Oral, which can cause coronary artery spasm. Patients may be taking
these drugs orally at home or via continuous infusion. Other chemotherapy drugs/monoclonal
antibodies can cause reduction in heart function but this is not usually an acute presentation
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, Trop-T, ECG. Consider ABGs
Questions:
• Is the patient currently receiving 5FU / Capecitabine / UFToral?
• Does the patient have a history of angina, or other heart disease?
• Exacerbating / relieving factors?
• Characteristics of pain?
• Associated symptoms, e.g. SOB, Syncope, Oedema, palpitations
• Consider is this pain cardiac. Other causes of chest pain in oncology patients are commonly pulmonary embolism
(PE), Indigestion, disease progression
Advise Urgent A&E assessment for all symptoms of cardiac chest pain
Action : Treat chest pain as ‘Red’ until proven to be non cardiac/life threatening
The aim is to exclude a life-threatening cause, which needs immediate treatment, from other causes of
chest pain
!
Ensure the patient is not connected to Intravenous infusion of 5FLuorouracil – If so arrange urgent
disconnection. If patient taking oral Capecitabine / UFT Oral twice daily, ensure patient does not
continue with this medication
!
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If
present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines
• Admit for Monitoring and on going assessment and management in accordance with local trust
guidelines
• Inform Acute Oncology team of admission as soon as possible.
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 9. SUSPECTED METASTATIC SPINAL CORD COMPRESSION (MSCC)
Requires URGENT medical assessment!
MSCC is due to a pathological vertebral body collapse or direct tumour growth causing compression of the spinal cord.
Irreversible neurological damage ensues with resulting paraplegia . Early diagnosis and treatment is essential
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients with known diagnosis/history of, or suspected cancer. Please note all patients should start
treatment within 24 hours once a diagnosis of MSCC is confirmed with results of MRI
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy. These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at
risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should be managed according to approved
guidelines
Observations: Neurological observations Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, G&S, CA, MRI
Questions:
• How long has patient experienced symptoms?
• Does the patient have severe progressive pain?
• Does the patient have new onset spinal nerve root pain, such as burning, numb or shooting?
• Does the patient have difficulty in walking?
• Reduced power/altered sensation to limbs?
• Does the patient have altered bowel function/ bladder disturbance/incontinence?
Grade 1 (Green)
Mild parasthesia,
subjective weakness; no
objective findings
Grade 2 (Amber)
Mild or moderate sensory
loss, moderate
parasthesia,mild weakness
with no loss of function
Grade 3 (Red)
Severe sensory loss,
parasthesia or weakness that
interferes with function
Grade 4 (Red)
Paralysis
Action : Grades 1 and 2
Action: Grades 3 and 4
• Ensure the patient does not have spinal cord
compression – if there is any doubt the patient
must be see and assessed
• Ensure the patient does not have spinal cord
compression
• Await MRI results
• Advise to contact the helpline immediately if
symptoms persist or worsen or if they develop
any other problems/toxicities
• Treat as unstable spine until MRI results
• Admit for monitoring and on going assessment
• Advise on pain control
• Inform the Acute Oncology team who will
contact the next day to assess patient
• Contact MSCC coordinator to plan treatment –
radiotherapy or surgery
• Steroids
• Pain control
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 10. MUCOSITIS/STOMATITIS/OESOPHAGITIS
An inflammatory reaction of the mucous lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract from mouth to stomach (mouth, lips,
throat) and surrounding soft tissues.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppresion
Observations:
Investigations:
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis.
If present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines.
Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Urgent: Full Blood Count , U&E
Questions:
• Does the patient have any blisters, ulcers or white patches on tongue, lips or mouth?
• Do the patient any pain or bleeding from the mouth?
• Are they able to eat and/or drink?
• Does eating or swallowing make the pain worse?
• Are they using any mouthwashes, pain killers or other treatments within the mouth?
• Do they also have diarrhoea?
• Are they passing usual amounts of urine?
Grade 1 (Green)
Painless ulcers, erythema
or mild soreness, able to
eat and drink.
Grade 2 (Amber)
Grade 3 (Red)
Painful erythema, oedema or Painful erythema, oedema or
ulcers but able to eat and
ulcers difficulty with eating and
drink
drinking
Grade 4 (Red)
Requires parental or enteral
support.
Unable to eat or drink.
Action : Grades 1 and 2
Action: Grade 3
Action: Grade 4
• Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
• Ensure the patient is not
neutropenic
• Ensure the patient is
not neutropenic
•Admit for
• Analgesia
- Avoid antipyretic analgesics if there is a risk of
neutropenia
• Admit if evidence of:
- Dehydration
- Infection
- Poor oral intake
- Other chemotherapy
toxicities
• Thrush
• Mouth care advice
• Arrange for Fluconozole to be prescribed
• Mouthwash
• Advise to contact the helpline if symptoms persist
or worsen or if they develop any other
problems/toxicities
• Analgesia
• Inform the Acute oncology team who will contact
the next day to assess patient
• Arrange for Fluconozole to
be prescribed
• Mouth care advice
• Mouthwash
- Monitoring and ongoing assessment
- Parenteral hydration
- Analgesia
- Mouth care/mouth
wash
- Thrush
• Arrange for Fluconozole
to be prescribed
• Thrush
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
MUCOSITIS
Initial assessment
• History to include other chemotherapy toxicities (risk of damage to rest of GI tract – nausea/ diarrhoea /sepsis –
manage these according to local guidelines)
• Careful examination of mucous membranes – erythema, ulceration, signs of secondary infection (bacterial or fungal),
signs of dehydration
• Assessment of fluid balance status (BP, pulse etc) and signs of systemic infection
• Check bloods – renal function, FBC, CRP, blood cultures if signs of systemic sepsis
• Swab any areas suspicious of secondary infection from bacteria, viruses or fungi
Initial management
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis.
If present, this should be managed according to local guidelines.
• Establish IV access if any signs of dehydration or sepsis
• Intravenous fluids according to fluid balance status and renal function
• Treat any infected mouth lesions as appropriate and adjust antibiotics according to clinical condition,
myelosuppression, swab results and local antibiotic guidelines
• Good oral hygiene and mouthwash every 4-6 hours (see above).
• If painful:
1) Difflam mouthwash (dilute 1:1 if stings) or Sucralfate suspension
2) Analgesia: low dose oral or subcutaneous opiates
(NB avoid Aspirin/Paracetemol/Co-Codamol if risk of neutropenia and sepsis)
• If thrush: Fluconazole – adjust dose in hepatic/ renal impairment and consider IV
• If ulcers: Topical Acyclovir for lips/oral Acyclovir for herpes infection in mouth
• If on continuous chemotherapy (e.g. Capecitabine or continuous 5-FU, discuss with oncology team who are likely to
suggest interrupting/stopping)
Ongoing management
•
•
•
•
•
•
Reassess daily (close monitoring of routine observations as at risk of infection)
Observe for development of diarrhoea, sepsis, neutropenia, pain
Fluid balance or daily weights
Daily full blood count
Dietetic review in case nutritional support is required
Contact specialist team supervising cancer treatment for further advice and as an adjustment of subsequent doses of
treatment may be necessary
• Document assessment and/or admission in patient records
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Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 11. ARTHRALGIA/MYALGIA
Normally a symmetrical widespread joint pain but can also be associated with muscle pain (myalgia). Arthralgia is most
common after taxane chemotherapy (docetaxel or paclitaxel) and vinca alkaloids (vincristine, vinblastine, vindesine),
aromatase inhibitor therapy (anastrazole, letrozole) or after filgrastim/pegfilgrastim (GCSF) injections.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
Observations:
Investigations:
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis.
If present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines.
Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E
Questions:
• Where is the pain? (If not widespread then consider other causes of joint pain e.g. localised pain in isolated joint/
back may be related to metastatic deposit and need investigation and discussion)
• How long has the patient had it? Is the pain affecting what the patient can do?
• Has/is the patient receiving GCSF, filgrastim/pegfilgrastim injections? When was the last injection?
• Is the patient taking anything for pain?
• Is the patient on any blood thinning drugs or steroids?
Grade 1(Green)
Mild Pain - not
interfering with
function
Grade 2(Amber)
Moderate pain pain interfering with function
but not interfering with
activities of daily living
Grade 3(Red)
Severe pain - pain severely
interfering with activities of daily
living
Grade 4(Red)
Disabling
ACTION: Grade 1 and Grade 2
ACTION: Grade 3
ACTION: Grade 4
• Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
• Advice and support measures as
for Grades 1 and 2
• Arrange urgent
admission for on
going assessment and
treatment
• Reassure the patient that this is normal, generally
nothing to worry about and associated with
treatment
• Advise to observe temperature closely - if patient
develops temperature they must phone helpline
immediately for advice
• Review current analgesia and consider
Paracetamol, non steroidal (with caution as may
not then develop a temperature in response to
infection) or tramadol if pain severity merits it
• Heat - a heat pad, covered hot water bottle or
regular warm baths. Advise patient to get plenty of
rest and plan activities to include rest periods
• Phone/review within 24 hours to ensure settling
• If neutropenic manage
according to approved guidelines
• Review analgesia – consider
trying tramadol, gabapentin, non
steroidal (consider specific
contraindications to nonsteroidal)
• Advise to observe temperature
closely - if patient develops
temperature they must phone
immediately for advice
• If neutropenic
manage according to
approved guidelines
• Review analgesia –
consider trying
tramadol, gabapentin,
non steroidal
(consider specific
contraindications to
non- steroidal)
• Phone/review within 24 hours
to ensure settling
24
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 12. SKIN RASH
Skin rash can be a side effect of many chemotherapy and non-chemotherapy drugs. Drug rashes are usually mild,
widespread red rashes with no other symptoms. Rash is particularly frequent and severe with EGFR antagonists (e.g.,
oral TKIs erlotonib/lapatinib or iv antibodies panitumumab/cetuximab). Rashes can occur with 5-FU/capecitabine (if
only palms and soles then see hand foot syndrome guideline). Rash can also occur with other illnesses or skin
infections (eg shingles, chicken pox, impetigo, cellulitis, allergic reaction)
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Identify:
Observations:
Investigations:
Questions:
Initial Assessment
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of:
- Neutropenic fever and sepsis
- Thrombocytopenia due to reduced marrow production or marrow infiltration
If present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines.
Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E
• What chemotherapy regimen is the patient receiving and when was the last treatment?
• If patient is on ERLOTINIB or GEFITINIB refer directly to specific drug information and refer to acute oncology team
• If patient is on CETUXIMAB or PANITUMUMAB refer directly to acute oncology team
• Has the patient received radiotherapy recently?
• Has the patient recently started any other medication including antibiotics?
• Do the patient have a history of skin complaints?
• Where is the skin rash and what does it look like (localised/widespread, flat/raised, pustules/ulcers/peeling/fluid
filled vesicles/bleeding)
• Does the rash itch? (if itch only consider liver/kidney problems/ dry skin/ allergy)
• Is the patient otherwise well?
• Does the patient have any signs of infection e.g. pain, swelling, pustules, fever, discharge?
• Has the patient been in recent contact with shingles/chicken pox?
• Has the patient had a stem cell/ bone marrow transplant (graft versus host disease)
Skin rash – Toxicity grading (NB toxicity scale different for EGFR antagonists)
Grade 1(Green)
Scattered macular or
papular eruption or
erythema that is
asymptomatic
Grade 2(Amber)
Scattered macular or papular
eruption or erythema with
pruritis or other associated
symptoms
ACTION: Grade 1 and Grade 2
! Ensure not neutropenic or Thrombocytopenic
Continue treatment and advise:
•Good fluid intake
•Avoid hot baths/tight clothes
•Sun block, hat and avoid sun exposure
•Mild soaps/cleansers/detergents
•Hypoallergenic make up
•Moisturiser (alcohol free, hypoallergenic)
•Anti-histamines
•Topical creams/lotions e.g. E45
Grade 3(Red)
Generalised symptomatic
macular, papular or
vesicular eruption
Grade 4(Red)
Exfoliative dermatitis or
ulcerating dermatitis
ACTION: Grade 3
ACTION: Grade 4
! Ensure not neutropenic
! Ensure not neutropenic
or Thrombocytopenic
or Thrombocytopenic
General advice as for
Grades 1 and 2
General advice as for
Grades 1 and 2
Interrupt treatment
Stop treatment
? Modify next dose
Dermatology review
Consider admission for
support and further
assessment
25
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
SKIN RASH
Management of patients admitted with skin rashes thought to be due to chemotherapy
Initial assessment:
Identify:
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of:
- Neutropenic fever and sepsis
- Thrombocytopenia due to reduced marrow production or marrow infiltration
If present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&ECRP, blood cultures if signs of systemic sepsis
History to include:
Other chemotherapy toxicities – manage these according to approved guidelines
Assessment of fluid balance status
Swab any areas suspicious of secondary infection from bacteria, viruses or fungi
Initial management:
Establish IV access if any signs of dehydration or sepsis
Intravenous fluids according to fluid balance status and renal function
Treat any infected lesions as appropriate and adjust antibiotics according to clinical condition, myelosuppression,
swab results and local antibiotic guidelines
Delineate and record area affected area
Check platelet count – rash may be secondary to thrombocytopenia
If ulcers: Topical Acyclovir for lips/oral Acyclovir for herpes infection in mouth
If on continuous or oral chemotherapy (e.g. capecitabine or continuous 5-FU) stop/interupt treatment and
discuss with oncology team .
Contact acute oncology team supervising cancer treatment for further advice .
Ongoing management:
Reassess daily (close monitoring of routine observations as at risk of infection)
Observe for development of sepsis, neutropenia, or other chemotherapy toxicities
Fluid balance or daily weights
Daily full blood count
Dermatology review if concerns/ uncertainty of diagnosis
Ensure general care measures:
Good fluid intake
Keep area clean and dry
Avoid hot baths/ tight clothes
Mild soaps/cleansers/detergents
Consider Prescribing:
Topical creams/lotions (alcohol free, hypoallergenic e.g. E45) – apply regularly to all affected areas
Anti-histamines if itch
Analgesia if painful (caution with paracetemol/aspirin if risk of neutropenic sepsis)
Treat infections according to likely organisms (follow local guidelines)
Inform acute oncology team for further advice/ to ensure next chemotherapy dose is adjusted
26
Guideline 13. BLEEDING AND/OR BRUISING
Bleeding can occur secondary to injury, disease, or as a side effect of treatment. It can be a life threatening event if
massive blood loss or intracranial haemorrhage occurs.
Thrombocytopenia – deficiency of red blood cells - is a reduction in the number of platelets in the blood if platelet count
is < 50 bleeding and or bruising may occur with minor trauma.
Intracranial hemorrhage is more likely if there is sepsis and a platelet count of <10
Requires immediate medical assessment/interview!
Initial Assessment
Identify:
All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
Observations:
Investigations:
Questions:
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of:
- Neutropenic fever and sepsis
- Thrombocytopenia due to : reduced marrow production: marrow infiltration
If present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines.
Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Urgent: Full Blood Count , U&E, consider group and cross match. Coagulation screen.
Is the patient actively bleeding? Site of active bleeding?
Injury related or spontaneous?
Onset and duration – when did bleeding start/how long has it persisted?
Have they had similar bleeding before?
How much blood has the patient lost?
Current medications /Allergies
Diagnosis/Treatment; Type/when was last treatment,
Relieving factors – Is it stopped via direct pressure or other measures?
Examination: Associated symptoms;
Light headed. Pallor. Clammy. Thirst. Rash (? Petechial ? Purpura?)
Grade 1(Amber)
Bleeding - mild self limiting,
controlled by conservative
measures, ecchymosis, occult
blood in body secretions
and/or
Bruising - petechiae or bruising
in a localised or dependant area,
with or without trauma.
Review all blood
investigation results.
If Neutropenic manage as
per protocol.
Discuss any abnormalities
with on call Haematooncolologist and/ or
Oncologist.
Do not discharge a patient
without prior discussion
with on call Haematooncolologist and/ or
Oncologist.
Grade 2(Red)
Bleeding - blood loss of 1-2
units and /or bruising moderate petechiae purpura
and/ or generalised bruising,
with or without trauma.
•
•
•
•
•
Manage according to
emergency department
protocols.
Review all blood
investigation results.
If Neutropenic manage
as per protocol.
Discuss any
abnormalities with on
call Haematooncolologist and/ or
Oncologist.
Admit for support and
monitoring.
Grade 3(Red)
Bleeding - blood loss of 3-4
units. and /or generalised
petechiae and purpura.
New bruises without
significant trauma.
Grade 4(Red)
Massive bleeding
blood loss of > 4 units.
Life threatening
haemorhage.
•
Manage according to emergency department
resuscitation guidelines
• Attention should be given to disease or
treatment specific factors such as;
thrombocytopenia
anticoagulant therapy
advanced disease
• If Neutropenic manage as per protocol
• Consider critical care management.
All patients should be discussed with on call
Haemato-oncolologist and/ or Oncologist.
27
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 14
PALMAR PLANTAR ERYTHRODYSESTHESIA (PPE)
Also known as hand foot syndrome, PPE is a distinctive localised cutaneous reaction to certain antineoplastic agents.
Symptoms include: Tingling or burning: Redness: Flaking / dryness : Swelling: Small blisters :Sores on palms and / or
soles
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppresion
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E
Questions:
•What chemotherapy regimen is the patient on?
•When was the last dose?
•Is this a continuous intravenous administration ? E.g. 5-Flourouracil
• is the patient still taking oral chemotherapy? E.g. Capecitabine
•Is the patient otherwise well?
• Any other symptoms e.g. Diarrhoea / stomatitis ( if yes refer to specific management guidelines) and please contact the
Acute Oncology Team
• Have they experienced this side effect before on previous treatment cycles?
Grade 1 (Green)
Minimal skin
changes or
dermatitis (e.g..
erythema) without
pain
Grade 2 (Amber)
Skin changes (e.g..
peeling, blister,
bleeding, oedema) or
pain, not interfering
with function
Grade 3 (Red)
Ulcerative dermatitis or skin
change with pain, interfering
with function
Grade 4 (Red)
N/A
ACTION: Grade 1
ACTION: Grade 2
Action: Grade 3
•Reassure the patient
that this is normal,
generally nothing to
worry about and
associated with
treatment.
•Stop the medication and
withhold until discussed
with AOT or prescribing
team
•Stop the medication
•Inform AOS
28
•Review current analgesia and consider
paracetamol if indicated (with caution as may not
then develop a temperature in response to
• consider with holding
treatment until resolved to
grade 0 - 1
infection)
Emphasise the importance of continuing skin care
regimen
•Reassure the patient that
this is normal, generally
nothing to worry about and
associated with treatment.
Withhold further treatment until resolved to
grade 0 – 1 consultant in charge to consider drug
dose reduction for further cycles or
discontinuation of drug as per guidance.
•Emphasise the
importance of skin
care regimen
•Ask patient to contact
chemo team if
symptoms worsen
.
.
•Emphasise the importance
of skin care regimen
28
Guideline 15
EXTRAVASATION
This is the accidental administration of drugs into the extra vascular tissue instead of into the vein. If the drug
extravasated is a vesicant, the damage to the surrounding tissue can be extensive and tissue necrosis can occur.
Extravasation may be linked to peripheral canulation or a Central Venous Access Device (CVAD).
SUSPECT PERIPHERAL EXTRAVASATION IF:
a) Patient complains of burning or stinging pain
b) There is evidence of swelling, induration, leakage at site
c) There is resistance on plunger of syringe or absence of free flow of infusion
d) There is no blood return (if found in isolation via a peripheral cannula this should not be regarded as an indication
of a non patent vein).
Action;
A. If extravasation occurs during peripheral administration of chemotherapy; Act immediately according to your
local extravasation guidelines.
B. If a patient presents as an emergency following previous peripheral administration of chemotherapy;
Act immediately Extravasation of a vesicant drug should be treated as an emergency. If it is discovered the local
Acute Oncology Team should be contacted, if out of hours use the 24 hour telephone on call contact. The local
extravasation policy should be followed.
Although administration of drugs via CVADs carry less risk of extravasation than peripheral administration, if it does
occur the damage is likely to be larger and more severe than with peripheral administration. This is because the event
is not likely to be noticed immediately and delays to the treatment of extravasation result in damage limitation rather
than cure.
SUSPECT CVAD EXTRAVASATION IF:
Signs and symptoms include;• The patient complains of pain
• There is evidence of redness and swelling
• There is visible leaking of the drug via the skin tunnel or around the exit site.
Extravasation of a vesicant drug should be treated as a medical emergency.
If it is discovered the local Acute Oncology Team should be contacted, if out of hours use the 24 hour telephone on
call contact. The local extravasation policy should be followed.
IMMEDIATE ACTION FOR ALL DRUG CATEGORIES IF CVAD EXTRAVASATION IS SUSPECTED.
If the patient is receiving an active infusion STOP the infusion immediately
Leave the central venous catheter in place.
Attempt to aspirate as much drug as possible with a new syringe.
For ports, aspirate then remove needle
Inform a senior member of the Acute Oncology Team
Organise X-ray of line or Lineogram
For Vesicant Extravasations or large volumes of irritant drugs refer to plastic surgeon as soon as
possible after detection .
29
Guideline 16 A
ANAPHYLAXIS
Anaphylaxis is a disorder characterised by an acute inflammatory reaction resulting from the release of histamine and
histamine-like substances from mast cells, causing a hypersensitivity immune response. Clinically it presents with
breathing difficulty, dizziness, hypotension, cyanosis and loss of consciousness and may lead to death.
Anaphylaxis is considered likely to be present if any 1 of the 3 following clinical criteria is satisfied within minutes to hours:
•Acute symptoms involving skin, mucosal surface, or both, as well as at least one of the following: respiratory compromise,
hypotension, or end-organ dysfunction
•Two or more of the following occur rapidly after exposure to a likely allergen: hypotension, respiratory compromise,
persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, or involvement of skin or mucosal surface
•Hypotension develops after exposure to an allergen known to cause symptoms for that patient: age-specific low blood
pressure or decline of systolic blood pressure of more than 30% compared to baseline
However, anaphylaxis occurs as part of a clinical continuum that can begin with relatively mild features and rapidly
progress to life-endangering respiratory or cardiovascular manifestations.
Time to medical assessment/interview
IMMEDIATE
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should be
managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, LFT, ABG’s (arterial blood gas), ECG
Signs and symptoms: breathing difficulty, dizziness, hypotension, cyanosis and loss of consciousness
Questions:
•Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
•Differential diagnosis cytokine release syndrome, acute infusion reaction; syncope (rapid recovery) with bradycardia in
vagal reaction; acute cardiac event; panic attack; acute severe asthma; acute abdominal or cardiac emergency
Grade 3 (Red)
Symptomatic bronchospasm, with or without urticaria;
parental intervention indicated; allergy related
oedema/angioedema; hypotension
Grade 4 (Red)
Life threatening consequences; urgent operative
intervention indicated
URGENT TREATMENT REQUIRED
Action : Treat as per Resuscitation Council guidelines
! These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If
present, this should be managed according to approved guidelines.
Treat as an emergency according to Resuscitation Council guidelines
Admit for:
1.Monitoring and on going assessment and management in accordance with local trust guidelines
2.Inform Acute Oncology team of admission as soon as possible.
30
31
Guideline 16 B.
HYPERSENSITIVITY/ALLERGIC REACTION
Hypersensitivity or an allergic reaction is an inappropriate and excessive reaction to an allergen (as pollen or
dust or animal hair or certain drugs or foods); severity ranges from mild allergy to severe systemic reactions
leading to anaphylactic shock if left untreated.
Time to medical assessment/interview
Immediate
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, LFT, Clotting screen; CXR, AXR, Abdominal USS
Signs and symptoms: bronchospasm, cough, dizziness; dyspnoea; headache; hypertension; hypotension; nausea;
vomiting; urticaria; tachycardia; rigors/chills; pruritis/itching; arthrlagia; myalgia; asthenia; rash
Questions:
•Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
•Differential diagnosis would include infusion reaction; cytokine release syndrome
Grade 1 (Green)
Transient flushing or
rash, drug fever <38o C
(100.4o F); intervention
not required
Grade 2 (Amber)
Intervention or infusion
interruption indicated;
responds promptly to
symptomatic treatment
(eg antihistamines;
NSAIDS, narcotics);
prophylactic medications
indicated for <=24hours
Action : grade 2
1. Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
Grade 3 (Red)
Prolonged (eg not rapidly
responsive to symptomatic
medication and/or brief
interruption of infusion);
recurrence of symptoms
following initial improvement;
hospital admission required for
clinical sequelae (eg renal
impairment, pulmonary
infiltrates)
Grade 4 (Red)
Life threatening consequences;
urgent intervention required
Action: Grade 3 and 4
2. Treat reaction in line with local
guidelines/policy
1.Ensure the patient is not neutropenic – treat
immediately with antibiotics if neutropenic sepsis
suspected
3. Arrange for elective admission in
accordance with local guidelines/practice
2. Treat as an emergency according to local
guidelines/policy.
4. Inform the Acute Oncology team of the
patients admission
3. Admit as an emergency and arrange for ongoing
urgent intervention/treatment
5. Advise to contact the chemotherapy
helpline if symptoms persist or worsen or
if they develop any other
problems/toxicities
3. Manage in accordance with trust local guidelines
depending upon differential diagnosis
4. Inform the Acute Oncology team of the patients
admission.
32
Guideline 17
RADIATION PNEUMONITIS
ACTIVE PATHWAY MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL
Definition: A disorder characterized by inflammation focally or diffusely affecting the lung parenchyma
Signs and symptoms of radiation pneumonitis
Clinical radiation pneumonitis, or inflammation of the lung(s), can often display non-specific signs.
These can include ;
• mild hypoxia
• fine crepitations – widespread if drug induced, localised if following focal radiation
• low grade fever
• the development of acute or sub acute dyspnoea, which after history and examination does not reveal
pneumonia, tumour recurrence, or any other specific aetiology.
• In addition to dyspnoea, there may be a new or worsening cough.
Clinical radiation pneumonitis is classed as ;
• mild if the symptoms are managed on an outpatient basis, and completely resolved
• moderate if managed on an outpatient basis and did not completely resolve
• sever if hospitalisation is necessary.
Clinical radiation pneumonitis may develop in 20% of lung carcinoma patients. The median time to onset of
symptoms is 3 weeks after radiation therapy.
Initial Assessment
Clinical evaluation, History and physical examination
CT (high resolution and CTPA) to exclude cancer progression and pulmonary embolus
Grade 1 (Green)
Grade 2 (Amber)
Asymptomatic; clinical or Symptomatic; medical
diagnostic observations
intervention indicated;
only;
limiting instrumental ADL
intervention not indicated
Grade 3 (Red)
Severe symptoms; limiting
self care ADL; oxygen
indicated
Grade 4 (Red)
Life-threatening
respiratory compromise;
urgent intervention
indicated
(e.g. tracheotomy or
intubation)
Review by chest physician
Inform Acute Oncology Team
Mild or moderate symptoms,
manageable on an outpatient
basis
High dose steroids e.g.
Prednisolone 50mg daily
reducing dose
Severe symptoms
requiring hospitalisation
Intravenous and/or inhaled
steroids
33
Kent & Medway Cancer Network
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 18
SUPERIOR VENA CAVA OBSTRUCTION (SVCO)
SVCO is an obstructive emergency that may occur as the result of progression of a malignancy or may be the diagnostic symptom.
SVCO is caused by external pressure, thrombus or direct tumour invasion causing obstruction of the superior vena cava and occurs
in 3-8% of patients with cancer.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, INR, CXR, Chest CT
Signs and symptoms: Dyspnoea; stridor, due to laryngeal oedema; dilated anterior chest wall veins; swelling of face
and neck; non-pulsatile JVP; chest pain; headaches; coma; confusion
Questions:
•Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
•Cardinal questions related to breathlessness
•Differential diagnosis would include chest Infection, pulmonary embolism (PE), disease progression (i.e. consolidation
/ pleural effusion); ascending aortic aneurysm (due to indwelling intravascular catheter)
Grade 1 Mild (Green)
Oedema in head or
neck (vascular
distension);
cyanosis; plethora
Grade 2 Moderate (Amber)
Oedema in head or neck with
functional impairment (mild
dysphagia, cough, visual
disturbances)
Action : grade 2
1. Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
2. Enquire regarding signs of sepsis /
productive cough
(Escalate to Grade 3 Red as appropriate)
3. Enquire if history of underlying chest
complaints e.g. asthma, COPD – Advise
patients around usual management of
exacerbations, advise to discuss with GP or
other associated health professional
managing this condition.
4. Consider prescription of high dose
Dexamethasone, 16mg daily.
Grade 3 Severe (Red)
Grade 4 Life threatening (Red)
Mild or moderate cerebral
oedema (headache, dizziness) or
mild/moderate laryngeal
oedema or diminished cardiac
reserve (syncope after bending)
Significant cerebral oedema
(confusion) or significant laryngeal
oedema (stridor) or significant
haemodynamic compromise
Action: Grade 3 and 4
1.Ensure the patient is not neutropenic – treat immediately
with antibiotics if neutropenic sepsis suspected
2. Admit if evidence of
•Desaturation
•Infection
•Other chemotherapy toxicities
3. Manage in accordance with trust local guidelines
depending upon differential diagnosis
SVC stent usually provides rapid improvement in symptoms
for most patients
4. Inform the Acute Oncology team of the patients
admission.
4. Advise to contact the chemotherapy
helpline if symptoms persist or worsen or if
they develop any other problems/toxicities
5. Inform the Acute oncology team who will
contact the next day to assess patient
34
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 19.
MALIGNANT PERICARDIAL EFFUSION
An accumulation of fluid within the pericardial sac leading to an effusion can be a presenting symptom in an acute
oncology patients. Two thirds of cancer patients have subclinical pericardial effusions with no overt cardiovascular
signs or symptoms. 50% of cases initially present with symptoms of cardiac tamponade. Symptoms are often
attributed to underlying cancers and are often a pre-terminal event; however, significant palliation can be achieved by
prompt diagnosis and management.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should
be managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, CXR, ECG, Trans- thoracic Echocardiograph
Signs and symptoms: Dyspnoea; cough; chest pain worse on inspiration; Increased distension of jugular veins (JVP)
with inspiration (Kussmaul’s sign); tachycardia; hypotension; pyrexia; rapid diastolic descent of venous pulse
(Freidreich’s sign); drop of 10mmHg or more on inspiration (pulsus paradoxus)
Questions:
•Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
•Cardinal questions related to breathlessness
•Differential diagnosis would include chest Infection, pulmonary embolism (PE), disease progression (i.e. consolidation
/ pleural effusion); ascending aortic aneurysm (due to indwelling intravascular catheter)
Grade 1 (Green)
No new symptoms
Grade 2 (Amber)
Asymptomatic effusion
size small to moderate
Action : grade 2
1. Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
2.Enquire regarding signs of sepsis /
productive cough
(Escalate to Grade 3 Red as appropriate)
3. Inform the Acute Oncology team of the
patients admission.
4. Advise to contact the chemotherapy
helpline if symptoms persist or worsen or
if they develop any other
problems/toxicities
Grade 3 (Red)
Effusion with physiological
consequences
Grade 4 (Red)
Life threatening consequences;
urgent intervention required
Action: Grade 3 and 4
1.Ensure the patient is not neutropenic – treat
immediately with antibiotics if neutropenic sepsis
suspected
2. Admit
3. Manage in accordance with trust local guidelines
depending upon differential diagnosis
4. Inform the Acute Oncology team of the patients
admission.
5. Discharge with appropriate follow-up
35
Guideline 19.
MALIGNANT PERICARDIAL EFFUSION
ACTIVE PATHWAY MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL
Background
Malignant pericardial effusions occur in up to 21% of cancer patients and are frequently not suspected until clinical
signs or symptoms of pericardial tamponade develop. Two thirds of cancer patients have subclinical pericardial effusions
with no overt cardiovascular signs or symptoms. One half of cases of pericardial effusion initially present with symptoms
of cardiac tamponade. Symptoms of pericardial effusion are often attributed to the underlying cancer. Symptomatic
pericardial effusions are often a pre-terminal event; however, significant symptom palliation can be achieved by prompt
diagnosis and management.
Causes
Most malignant pericardial effusions result from direct malignant involvement with the pericardium. Other, rarer causes
of effusions in cancer patients include radiation induced pericarditis or chemotherapy induced pericarditis associated
with agents such as Doxorubicin or Cyclophosphamide.
Clinical Findings
• Dyspnoea occurs in 93% of patients with pericardial effusions
Dyspnoea, fatigue, or asthenia may be the initial symptoms.
other common symptoms include ;
• Cough
• chest pain
• orthopnea.
On examination, findings include ;
• Kussmauls’s sign (increased distension of jugular veins with inspiration)
• Freidreich’s sign (rapid diastolic descent of the venous pulse) and pulsus paradoxus (drop of 10mmHg or more on
inspiration).
Signs of cardiac tamponade include;
• tachycardia
• pulsus paradoxus,
• raised jugular venous pressure
• hypotension.
Diagnosis
Chest X-rays may show a widened cardiac shadow but trans-thoracic echocardiography is the investigation of choice
as it shows the size of the effusion and also associated cardiac function.
Treatment
Treatment of malignant pericardial effusions is best managed with early referral to Cardiology or Cardiothoracic
Surgical teams. Treatment options include percutaneous pericardiocentesis, pericardial window, surgical
pericardiectomy or via video thorascopy.
All treatment options should be balanced against the patient’s symptoms, overall performance status, level of
disease and predicted benefits.
March 2011, Dr S Watkins Clinical Oncology SpR
East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust
36
Acute Oncology Management Guidelines
Guideline 20
HYPOMAGNESEMIA
A disorder characterised by laboratory test results that indicate a low concentration of magnesium in the blood. Many
cancer drugs can lead to hypomagnesaemia for example cisplatin, carboplatin, liposomal doxorubicin, cetuximab,
panitumumab. Other drugs commonly used in cancer patients can cause or contribute to low magnesium e.g. gentamicin
, diuretics, amino glycoside antibiotics. Patients with severe treatment related diarrhoea are also at risk.
Initial Assessment
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR, O2 sats,
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E ,CRP, LFTs, & bone profile include magnesium and phosphate
Hypomagnesemia is often detected on blood tests when the patient is being assessed for other reasons therefore most
patients are asymptomatic as the levels are only mildly depressed ( > 0.50mmol/L). When serum magnesium levels drop
more significantly ( <0.50mmol/L) most patients have non specific symptoms but they may then go on to develop cardiac
or muscle related symptoms such as weakness, cramping , tachycardia / palpitations. Neurological complaints can be that
of vertigo, ataxia, depression, and in severe cases seizures or altered mental state.
Normal reference range is 0.7 -1.0 mmol/L
Hypomagnesaemia is commonly found in association with hypocalcaemia, hypokalaemia and hyponatraemia therefore
investigations for these should also be included
Examination Findings
Neuromuscular Irritability: Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes; muscular fibrillation; +ve Trousseau ( facial nerve
hypersensitivity) & Chvostek (metacarpal hyper flexion) signs ; dysarthria or dysphagia secondary to oesophageal
dysmotility.
CNS Hyper sensitivity: irritability and combativeness; disorientation; psychosis; ataxia, vertigo, nystagmus & seizures
Cardiac findings (ECG): Paroxysmal atrial and ventricular dysrhythmias; repolarisation Alterans
Grade 1 (Green)
< LLN – 1.2mg/dL;
<LLN - 0.5 mmol/L
These patients are
typically asymptomatic.
Consider oral
replacement (poorly
absorbed) discuss with
pharmacy
Encourage Mg rich diet
e.g. spinach, pumpkin
seeds, halibut
Grade 2 (Amber)
<1.2 – 0.9mg/dL;
< 0.5- 0.4 mmol/L
Consider oral replacement
(poorly absorbed)
Encourage Magnesium rich
diet e.g. spinach, pumpkin
seeds, halibut
Recheck bloods in 24- 48
hours
Correct any other
electrolyte imbalance as
necessary
Grade 3 (Red)
<0.9 – 0.7mg/dL:
<0.4 – 0.3 mmol/L
Administer IV
magnesium sulphate
10 – 20mmol diluted
in 0.9% sodium
chloride over 3 – 6
hours
Correct any other
electrolyte imbalance
as necessary
Grade 4 (Red)
<0.7mg/dL;
<0.3 mmol/L
Life threatening
consequences
Admit for slow IV
Magnesium Sulphate
replacement.
In severe cases such as
cardiac arrhythmias
MgSo4 can be given as
a bolus but under HDU
/ ITU supervision
37
Guideline 21.
CARCINOMATOSIS LYMPHANGITIS
ACTIVE PATHWAY MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL
Background
Carcinomatosis Lymphangitis refers to a diffuse Infiltration and obstruction of the pulmonary parenchymal
lymphatic channels. It is associated with many malignancies but 80% are adenocarcinomas, predominately
breast, but also lung, colon and stomach.
Clinical presentation
Clinically patients present with increasing breathlessness, though they may also have a progressive dry
cough or heamoptysis.
Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion in a patient with metastatic cancer and appropriate symptoms.
Chest X-rays can appear normal in 30-50% of cases, but characteristic changes include;
• Bronchovascular markings with irregular outlines,
•
Reticular-nodular shadowing,
•
Bilateral lower lobe changes,
Other more general changes include;
• hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy
• pleural effusions.
High resolution CT Scanning is the investigation of choice if CXR’s are equivocal or the clinical picture is not
obvious.
Treatment
Corticosteroids (such as Dexamethasone 4mg twice daily, with appropriate PPI cover and not be taken later
than 2pm to avoid insomnia) may be beneficial to aid in the management of the associated dyspnea.
Discussion with the patient’s oncology team is warranted as to whether there are any systemic oncological
treatments available, as treating the malignancy itself is the only long term option.
Unfortunately the prognosis of patients who develop Carcinomatosis Lymphangitis is poor, with less than
50% surviving 3 months.
March 2011, Dr S Watkins Clinical Oncology SpR
East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust
38
Guideline 22
HYPERCALCAEMIA OF MALIGNANCY
Definition: A disorder characterized by laboratory test results that indicate an elevation in the concentration of
calcium (corrected for albumin) in blood.
Main symptoms of Hypercalcaemia
Polyuria
Anorexia
Constipation
Fatigue
Lethargy
Arrhythmias
Polydipsia
Nausea/Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Grade 1 (Green)
Grade 2 (Amber)
Corrected serum calcium of
>ULN - 11.5 mg/dL;
>ULN -2.9 mmol/L; Ionized
calcium
>ULN - 1.5 mmol/L
Corrected serum calcium of
>11.5 - 12.5 mg/dL;
>2.9 - 3.1 mmol/L; Ionized
calcium
>1.5- 1.6 mmol/L; symptomatic
If corrected calcium 2.6-2.69mmol/l
& patient asymptomatic, recheck &
only treat if rising.
Grade 3 (Red)
Grade 4 (Red)
Corrected serum calcium of
>12.5 - 13.5 mg/dL;
>3.1 - 3.4 mmol/L; Ionized
calcium
>1.6- 1.8 mmol/L;
hospitalization indicated
Corrected serum calcium of
>13.5 mg/dL;
>3.4 mmol/L;Ionized
calcium
>1.8 mmol/L;life-threatening
consequences
Corrected calcium is >2.60 mmol/l
If NO, check FBC, ESR, U&E, LFT,
TFT, PTH, cortisol, vit D &
Myeloma screen, start IVI & seek
advice from Endocrinologist
Is patient know to have
active malignancy?
Corrected calcium >4mmol/l is lifethreatening & requires URGENT
treatment
If CrCI <30ml/min (GFR<10), do
not give bisphosphonate
Confusion
Seizures
Coma
If YES, is this the first
episode of hypercalcaemia?
Review need for any drugs which
may affect renal blood flow e.g.
NSAIDs, diuretics, ACEI’s, ARB’s
SEEK ADVICE
If 2nd or subsequent episode of
hypercalcaemia, give 2-4 litres of
0.9% saline IV, followed by
zoledronic acid 4mg IV in 100ml
0,9 saline
If first episode of hypercalcaemia,
give 2-4 litres of 0.9% saline IV
followed by zoledronic acid 4mg IV
or pamidronate (dose according to
corrected calcium)
Corrected
Calcium
(mmol/l)
Pamidronate
Dose
2.6-3.0
Above 3.0
60mg
90mg
If patient needs pamidronate to
treat bone pain, give 90mg,
irrespective of corrected
calcium level
Recheck U&E & calcium after 4-7
days (sooner if need to monitor fluid
replacement)
If calcium level still high, consider
further dose of bisphosphonate
(zoledronic acid 4mg IV) unless
calcium level reducing & symptoms
improving
DO NOT GIVE FURTHER
BISPHOSPHONATE UNTIL AT
LEAST 4 DAYS AFTER PREVIOUS
DOSE
Maximum effect not seen yet
Risk of hypocalcaemia if further
bisphosphonate given too soon
Recheck calcium weekly. If calcium levels high & 3 weeks or more since last dose of bisphosphonate,
give zoledronic acid 4mg IV; if less than 3 weeks since last dose of bisphosphonate,
SEEK ADVICE
Refer to BNF & intranet hypercalcaemia guidelines for more details – especially if renal impairment
39
Guideline 23.
ABDOMINAL ASCITIES
Ascites is the accumulation of protein rich fluid in the peritoneal cavity and can be classed as an exudate or transudate.
Ascites typically develops in the setting of recurrent and/or advanced cancer, the commonest sites being ovarian, breast
and colo-rectal.
Time to medical assessment/interview
15 minutes
(Canadian ED Triage & Acuity Scale)
Initial Assessment
Identify: All patients within 6 /52 of chemotherapy or disease related immunosuppression
These Patients are often also myelosuppressed and are at risk of neutropenic fever and sepsis. If present, this should be
managed according to approved guidelines.
Observations: Temperature, Pulse, BP, RR,O2 sats, AVPU, early warning score
Investigations: Urgent Full Blood Count , U&E, LFT, Clotting screen; CXR, AXR, Abdominal USS
Signs and symptoms: abdominal pain and distension; dyspnoea; bulging flanks with dullness to percussion; nausea;
vomiting.
Questions:
•Cancer diagnosis/primary disease
•Differential diagnosis would include liver disease
Grade 1 (Green)
Grade 2 (Amber)
Asymptomatic; clinical Symptomatic; medical
or diagnostic
intervention indicated
observations only;
intervention not
indicated
Grade 3 (Red)
Severe symptoms; invasive
intervention indicated
Action : grade 2
1. Ensure the patient is not neutropenic
Action: Grade 3 and 4
Grade 4 (Red)
Life threatening consequences;
urgent operative intervention
indicated
2. Arrange for elective admission in
accordance with local guidelines/practice
1.Ensure the patient is not neutropenic – treat
immediately with antibiotics if neutropenic sepsis
suspected
3 . Inform the Acute Oncology team of
the patients admission
2. Admit as an emergency and arrange for urgent
intervention/treatment
4. Advise to contact the chemotherapy
helpline if symptoms persist or worsen or
if they develop any other
problems/toxicities
3. Manage in accordance with trust local guidelines
depending upon differential diagnosis
4. Inform the Acute Oncology team of the patients
admission.
40
Guideline 24.
PLEURAL EFFUSION
ACTIVE PATHWAY MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL
Proven malignant effusion
NO
Contact Acute Oncology
Team
Observe unless drain
advised for other reasons
Symptomatic
YES
Consider palliative care
referral for symptom
management
NO
YES
Long life expectancy and
limited systemic disease
Consider referral to thoracic
surgeons for thorocoscopic
drainage and pleuradesis
NO
Intercostal Tube Insertion
and drainage
NO
Systemic therapy likely to
lead to rapid resolution
YES
Systemic therapy
Oncology referral
Follow local pathway for
insertion
41
Guideline 25.
CENTRALVENOUS ACCESS DEVICES (CVAD) PROBLEM MANAGEMENT
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS.
There are several risks and complications related to the insertion and maintenance of CVAD’s. They have
been briefly discussed below. If you have any concerns relating to any of the following problems please refer
to your Local Management Guidelines and contact your Acute Oncology Team.
Infection
Localized infection: Tunnel infections can occur in skin tunnelled lines. The insertion site should be examined prior
to access and/or daily by HCP or self monitoring for any signs of redness, swelling or discharge, pain or tenderness
at the exit site. (Absence of discharge does not rule out local infection because if a patient is neutropenic, pus may
not be produced). If the patient is well and not pyrexial, localized infection can be treated with oral or intravenous
antibiotics according to the clinical condition of the patient at that time. Lack of response to antibiotics should be
acted upon quickly so that infection does not progress further.
Luminal infection: Often presents as pyrexia/shivers/rigor following catheter flushing. If untreated this can progress
to septicaemia. If a line infection is suspected the patient should be admitted to hospital for blood cultures and
intravenous antibiotics. This is a serious complication of CVADs and can be life threatening if the patient has
recently received chemotherapy and is neutropenic.
Any heath professional caring for a patient with a CVAD must be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of
septicaemia. First dose of antibiotics for patients with neutropenic sepsis should be delivered within 1 hour of arrival
to hospital
Thrombosis
Thrombosis is the formation of a clot within a blood vessel. Signs and symptoms of thrombosis secondary to CVAD
insertion include; pain in the shoulder or chest, swelling, auxiliary blood vessel formation. Thrombosis should be
managed according to locally agreed guidelines.
Phlebitis
This is the inflammation of the intima of the vein and it can be mechanical or infective in origin.
Mechanical phlebitis is most common in PICC lines and can occur within 72 hrs to a week of line insertion.
Signs and symptoms include pain, erythema, warmth, and a venous cord may be palpable. Mechanical phlebitis can
be treated effectively with application of heat pads every 4-6 hours for 20 minutes at a time. Patients should also be
offered analgesia as required. Lines should not be removed without seeking appropriate advice from the AOS Team
Haematoma
This results from uncontrolled bleeding around the site of insertion. It is a hard and painful swelling with infiltrated
blood. Hirudoid cream can be used to aid dispersal of the haematoma: 5-15cm of cream applied over affected area
up to 4 times daily and gently massaged into the skin. Firstly check if the patient is taking any anticoagulant therapy
or Aspirin. Also check platelet count and clotting.
Air Embolus
This is a very rare complication. Methods to reduce the risk of air embolus should be used when inserting, accessing
or removing a line. Only health professionals trained and competent to do so should be inserting, accessing or
removing central lines. Local policies should be adhered to. If a patient suddenly becomes acutely short of breath
and distressed, air embolism should be suspected. Check the line for any obvious holes and clamp above if any are
apparent. Lay the patient flat and call for urgent medical assistance.
42
Catheter Migration
Although x-rayed following insertion and secured in place, the catheter tip can migrate from its desired position just
above the right atrium. This can be due to the patient being very active, or the catheter not being secured properly
or in the case of skin tunnelled lines the Dacron cuff may slip due to poor anchorage of the tissues. The sign is the
length of the catheter outside the body gets longer. It is important to always check the length before any
manipulation of the catheter. If the Dacron cuff is visible or the length of the PICC line is greater outside the body xray will be required to confirm the position of the catheter tip. Symptoms of catheter migration can include pain in
the neck and a rushing sound in the ear during flushing.
Catheter Damage
Any catheter can fracture or become damaged. Common causes are too much pressure being exerted during drug
administration or the incorrect use of syringe size resulting in excess pressure. There may be a visible split or the
drug may leak from a hole during administration. If damage is apparent then any drug therapy should be stopped. If
it is an open-ended line that is split above the clamp, use an atraumatic clamp (or clamps covered in gauze) above
the damaged area. The line must be repaired using the appropriate repair kit by a competent HCP.
Accidental Removal
Pressure should be applied to the exit /entry sites for approximately 5 minutes or until bleeding stops.
Arrangements then need to be made for replacement of the line. Inspect line to ensure that it is intact if in doubt
then X-ray confirmation is required.
Unable to aspirate blood
Patency of CVADs should be established prior to administration of any drug or solution (RCN 2010). This is to
ensure that any risk of extravasation is minimized. Occlusion can be termed complete, partial or withdrawal
occlusion.
Complete occlusion can be due to a clot or drug precipitation within the line or a fibrin sheath completely
enveloping the device. It results in an inability to either withdraw blood or infuse liquids
Partial occlusion can be due to a small blood clot within the line or an external obstruction, for example a twist or
a kink in the line. It results in difficulty withdrawing blood.
Withdrawal occlusion can result from a fibrin tail or malposition of the tip of the line and results with inability to
withdraw blood but fluids can be administered with ease.
Fibrin sheaths can form as quickly as 24 hrs following insertion, fluids can be administered but aspiration of blood
is impossible as the fibrin acts as a valve (Amesur 2007)
Unblocking Central Venous Catheters
Thrombolytics such as Urokinase are used to re-establish patency of CVADs obstructed with intraluminal or extra
luminal thrombus or fibrin sheath. This agent dissolves clots and fibrin. Thrombolytics should be prescribed by the
medical staff and administered by staff who have been trained to do so, only after other reasons for catheter
obstruction have been ruled out.
43
Acknowledgements
Groups involved in the consultation and Development of Original Document
•United Kingdom Chemotherapy Redesign Group
•United Kingdom Chemotherapy Nurses Society Chemotherapy Leads/Board Members
NECN Acute Oncology Guidelines & NECN CINV Guidelines
South East Scotland Cancer Network: Management of Chemotherapy Toxicity Guidelines
GMCN Acute oncology guidelines
Northern Ireland Cancer Network
Authors of Original United Kingdom Chemotherapy Redesign Group Document
•Philippa Jones
•Gill Newbold
•Melanie Robertson
•Rebbecca Furlong
•Carolyn Bennett
44