Oncology Certified Nurse (OCN) Nursing Practice Test 2025 - Free OCN Practice Questions and Study Guide

During Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS), metabolic imbalance results from the rapid destruction of tumor cells, typically following chemotherapy or radiation therapy. When a large number of tumor cells are killed off swiftly, they release their intracellular contents into the bloodstream, which can overwhelm the body's metabolic processes.

This massive cellular breakdown leads to elevated levels of potassium, phosphate, and uric acid. The resulting hyperuricemia can cause acute kidney injury due to the precipitation of uric acid crystals in the renal tubules. Additionally, high phosphate levels can lead to hypocalcemia, further complicating the metabolic balance.

The essence of TLS lies in this sudden shift in metabolic state due to the rapid cell death, triggering a cascade of biochemical changes that require careful monitoring and management in patients undergoing treatment for malignancies. Understanding this physiological response is crucial for oncology nurses to effectively prevent and manage potential complications associated with TLS.