Nursing care of patients treated with chemotherapy because of Hodgkin lymphoma

Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer disease of the lymphatic system, which is characterised by presence of derivative B cell lymphocytes, called Reed-Sternberg cells and Hodgkin cells. It is one of the less common cancers. Genetic and environmental factors influence the development of this disease. The disturbing symptom, usually there is appearance of palpable, painless, and enlarged lymphoid nodes. Advanced disease can give metastases to other organs of the body, like lungs or liver. When unprofessionally diagnosed or untreated, it can lead to severe health complications, destruction of the body, and death. Complaints accompanying this disease impede normal functioning and reduce the quality of life. One of the treatment methods is chemotherapy, which is adapted to the level of advancement and the kind of disease. Proper preparation of the patient for chemotherapy and mitigation of side effects make the therapeutic process easier. The role of the nurse seems to be important to achieve beneficial effects of treatment. Hodgkin lymphoma is a serious health problem for patients and their families; therefore, they should be cared for by professional medical staff. It is also important to propagate information about the essence of this disease in society. The purpose of this work is to show nurses’ tasks in the care of patients who are treated by cytostatics because of Hodgkin lymphoma. The work was written through the analysis of available literature. Literature, published articles in scientific journals, and selected websites were reviewed. The work has an illustrative character.