9.1 Assess and Analyze the Impact of Nutrition on the Hematological System
5 min read•june 18, 2024
Chemotherapeutic agents are powerful drugs used to fight cancer. They work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, but this also means they can affect healthy cells in the body. Understanding how these drugs work and how to handle them safely is crucial for nurses.
Safe handling and proper administration of chemotherapy are essential skills for oncology nurses. From using personal protective equipment to knowing the various routes of administration, nurses play a key role in ensuring patient safety and maximizing treatment effectiveness.
Safe Handling and Administration of Chemotherapeutic Agents
Safe handling of chemotherapeutic agents
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- Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns, gloves, masks, and eye protection to minimize exposure to chemotherapeutic agents
- Double glove when handling chemotherapeutic agents to provide an extra layer of protection
- Prepare medications in a designated area with proper ventilation, such as a biological safety cabinet or isolator, to contain any potential spills or aerosols
- Dispose of contaminated materials properly by placing them in leak-proof containers labeled as hazardous waste and following facility protocols for disposal
- Clean up spills immediately using a spill kit containing absorbent materials and PPE, notifying appropriate personnel and following facility protocols
- Educate patients and caregivers on safe handling at home, including wearing gloves when handling bodily fluids or contaminated items, washing hands thoroughly after contact, and disposing of contaminated materials as directed by healthcare provider
Methods and routes of chemotherapy administration
- Conventional chemotherapy administered at maximum tolerated dose to achieve the greatest cancer cell kill
- Dose-dense chemotherapy given at shorter intervals between treatments to minimize cancer cell regrowth
- Metronomic chemotherapy involves low-dose, frequent administration to maintain a constant level of drug exposure
- Induction phase involves initial high-dose treatment to achieve remission by rapidly killing cancer cells
- Consolidation phase provides additional treatment to eliminate remaining cancer cells and prevent relapse
- Maintenance phase involves long-term, low-dose treatment to prevent relapse by suppressing cancer cell growth
- Intravenous (IV) route administers chemotherapy directly into the bloodstream for systemic distribution
- Oral route involves taking chemotherapy by mouth in pill or liquid form for systemic absorption
- Intramuscular (IM) route injects chemotherapy into muscle tissue for gradual absorption into the bloodstream
- Subcutaneous (SC) route injects chemotherapy into the fatty tissue beneath the skin for gradual absorption
- Intrathecal route administers chemotherapy directly into the cerebrospinal fluid to treat central nervous system cancers
- Topical route applies chemotherapy to the skin as a cream or ointment for localized treatment (skin cancers)
Chemotherapeutic Agents and Nursing Considerations
Side effects of chemotherapeutic drugs
- Myelosuppression decreases production of blood cells, leading to , , and
- Gastrointestinal effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mucositis due to damage to rapidly dividing cells
- Hair loss (alopecia) occurs due to damage to hair follicles, which are rapidly dividing cells
- results from the body's response to chemotherapy and the increased energy demands of fighting cancer
- Skin changes such as dryness, rash, and hyperpigmentation can occur due to chemotherapy's effects on skin cells
- Peripheral neuropathy causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet due to nerve damage
- Cognitive changes ("chemo brain") involve difficulties with memory, concentration, and multitasking
- Fertility issues may arise due to damage to reproductive cells, potentially leading to temporary or permanent infertility
- Secondary malignancies can develop years after chemotherapy treatment due to DNA damage and mutations
Classes of chemotherapeutic agents
- Alkylating agents (cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide) damage DNA by adding alkyl groups, preventing cell division
- Antimetabolites (5-fluorouracil, methotrexate) interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis by mimicking normal metabolites
- Plant alkaloids (vincristine, paclitaxel) disrupt microtubule function, inhibiting cell division and leading to apoptosis
- Antitumor antibiotics (doxorubicin, bleomycin) interfere with DNA replication and transcription by various mechanisms
- Topoisomerase inhibitors (etoposide, irinotecan) prevent DNA unwinding and replication by inhibiting topoisomerase enzymes
- Targeted therapies (imatinib, trastuzumab) block specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival pathways
Nursing considerations for chemotherapy
- Assess patient's understanding of treatment and potential side effects to ensure informed consent and compliance
- Verify correct drug, dose, route, and patient identity to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety
- Monitor for infusion reactions and adverse effects to promptly identify and manage complications
- Manage side effects by administering antiemetics for nausea and vomiting, providing oral care for mucositis, and encouraging rest and nutrition to combat
- Educate patients on self-care measures and when to seek medical attention to promote self-management and early intervention
- Maintain strict infection control practices to protect immunocompromised patients from opportunistic infections
- Document administration and patient response to ensure accurate records and facilitate continuity of care
Patient education for chemotherapy
- Explain the purpose, schedule, and potential side effects of treatment to help patients understand and prepare for their chemotherapy regimen
- Teach patients how to manage common side effects through dietary modifications for gastrointestinal issues, proper oral hygiene to prevent mucositis, and strategies for coping with fatigue and cognitive changes
- Emphasize the importance of infection prevention by encouraging frequent hand hygiene, avoiding crowds, and staying up-to-date on vaccinations
- Discuss fertility preservation options, if applicable, to help patients make informed decisions about their reproductive health
- Provide resources for emotional support and coping to address the psychological impact of cancer and its treatment
- Encourage open communication with the healthcare team to foster a supportive and collaborative relationship
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments for monitoring and support to ensure ongoing assessment and management of the patient's condition
Mechanisms of chemotherapeutic agents
- Indications for chemotherapeutic agents are specific to each drug and cancer type, considering factors such as stage, grade, and patient characteristics
- Mechanisms of action vary by class and target specific cellular processes to inhibit cancer cell growth and survival
- Alkylating agents directly damage DNA
- Antimetabolites interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis
- Plant alkaloids disrupt mitotic spindle formation
- Antitumor antibiotics intercalate with DNA and generate free radicals
- Topoisomerase inhibitors prevent DNA replication and transcription
- Targeted therapies block specific signaling pathways
- Potential drug interactions can occur with cytochrome P450 inhibitors or inducers altering drug metabolism, increased risk of toxicity when combined with other myelosuppressive agents, and enhanced or reduced efficacy when combined with certain targeted therapies
- Consult drug references and pharmacists for specific interaction information to ensure safe and effective use of chemotherapeutic agents
Chemotherapy and the Cell Cycle
- Cell cycle: The process by which cells divide and replicate, consisting of various phases targeted by different chemotherapeutic agents
- Cytotoxicity: The ability of chemotherapeutic drugs to kill cancer cells, often by disrupting the cell cycle or inducing apoptosis
- Drug resistance: The ability of cancer cells to develop mechanisms to survive chemotherapy, often through genetic mutations or altered cellular pathways
- Pharmacokinetics: The study of how the body processes chemotherapeutic drugs, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion
- Tumor markers: Substances produced by cancer cells or the body in response to cancer, used to monitor treatment response and disease progression
- Adjuvant therapy: Chemotherapy given after primary treatment (such as surgery) to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
- Neoadjuvant therapy: Chemotherapy administered before primary treatment to shrink tumors and improve surgical outcomes
Key Terms to Review (85)
Albumin: Albumin is a protein made by the liver that plays a crucial role in maintaining oncotic pressure and transporting various substances in the blood. It is essential for proper fluid distribution between body compartments.
Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport to tissues. It can result from various causes including nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, and genetic disorders.
Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduced number or impaired function of red blood cells, leading to a decrease in the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. This can have significant implications for an individual's overall health and wellness, particularly in the context of nursing practice and the management of various medical conditions.
Bioavailability: Bioavailability refers to the degree and rate at which a substance, such as a nutrient or medication, is absorbed and becomes available for use or storage in the body. It is a crucial concept that connects the consumption of nutrients, minerals, and supplements to their ultimate impact on physiological processes and health outcomes.
Bleeding: Bleeding is the loss of blood from the circulatory system, which can occur internally or externally. It can significantly impact nutritional status and overall hematologic health, requiring careful management in healthcare settings.
Blood analysis: Blood analysis is the examination of blood samples to assess an individual's health status or diagnose medical conditions. It provides crucial information about nutritional deficiencies, infections, and overall hematologic wellness.
Blood disorders: Blood disorders are conditions that affect the components and functions of blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. These disorders can impact oxygen transport, immune response, and overall hematologic wellness.
Bloody stool: Bloody stool is the presence of blood in the feces, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding. It may appear as bright red blood or black, tarry stools depending on the location of the bleed.
Bone Marrow Aspiration/Biopsy: Bone Marrow Aspiration/Biopsy is a medical procedure used to extract a small amount of bone marrow tissue for examination. It helps diagnose and monitor blood and marrow diseases, such as leukemia and anemia.
Bruising: Bruising is the discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, typically caused by trauma to blood vessels. It can be an indicator of underlying nutritional deficiencies or hematological disorders.
Clinical judgment: Clinical judgment is the process by which nurses analyze and interpret patient data to make informed decisions about care. It involves critical thinking, experience, and evidence-based practice to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Coagulopathy: Coagulopathy is a condition where the blood’s ability to coagulate (form clots) is impaired. This can lead to excessive bleeding or bruising and complicates surgical procedures or injuries.
Copper: Copper is a trace mineral essential for human health, involved in various bodily functions. It plays a critical role in neurological and hematologic wellness by supporting enzyme function and iron metabolism.
Dietary history: Dietary history is a comprehensive assessment of an individual's food and beverage intake over a specific period. It helps healthcare professionals understand nutritional habits and identify potential deficiencies or excesses.
Dietary Modification: Dietary modification refers to the process of intentionally altering an individual's dietary intake to achieve specific health or nutritional goals. This term is particularly relevant in the context of assessing and analyzing the impact of nutrition on the hematological system, as well as implementing nutritional strategies to impact hematological wellness.
Dizziness: Dizziness is a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling faint. It can result from various factors including nutritional deficiencies, cardiovascular issues, and neurological disorders.
Dyspnea: Dyspnea is the medical term for shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. It can be a symptom of various underlying health issues, including pulmonary and cardiovascular conditions.
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor various heart conditions, including arrhythmias and myocardial infarctions.
Erythrocytes: Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells (RBCs), are the most abundant type of blood cells in the human body. They are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs, playing a crucial role in the hematological system.
Erythropoiesis: Erythropoiesis is the process of red blood cell (erythrocyte) production and maturation. It is a crucial component of the hematological system, responsible for maintaining adequate red blood cell levels to ensure efficient oxygen transport throughout the body.
Erythropoietin: Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone produced primarily by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bone marrow. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of red blood cell production and is closely linked to the hematological system and renal function.
Fainting: Fainting, also known as syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness usually caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain. It can be triggered by various factors including dehydration, low blood sugar, or anemia.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a state of extreme tiredness and reduced functional capacity that can be physical, mental, or a combination of both. It is often a symptom of underlying health issues and can significantly impact daily activities.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a subjective feeling of physical, emotional, or mental exhaustion that can significantly impact an individual's ability to function normally. It is a common symptom that can arise from various underlying conditions, including those related to the hematological system and chronic hematologic illnesses.
Ferritin: Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body. It is a key indicator of the body's iron status and plays a crucial role in the hematological system, hematologic wellness, and chronic hematologic illnesses.
Folate: Folate is a B-vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. It plays a crucial role in cell division and is particularly important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy and fetal development.
Folate: Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes in the body, including neurological, hematological, and cardiovascular wellness. It is particularly important during periods of rapid growth and development, such as pregnancy and early childhood.
Food cravings: Food cravings are intense desires to consume specific foods, often high in sugar or fat. They can influence dietary choices and impact overall nutrition and health.
Haptoglobin: Haptoglobin is a plasma protein that binds free hemoglobin released from erythrocytes, preventing kidney damage and iron loss. It plays a crucial role in the body's response to hemolysis and inflammation.
Health history: Health history is a comprehensive record of an individual's past and present health information, including illnesses, surgeries, medications, allergies, and lifestyle factors. It is crucial for healthcare providers to understand a patient's health history to make informed clinical decisions.
Hematinics: Hematinics are nutrients that are essential for the proper formation and function of red blood cells (RBCs) and the overall health of the hematological system. They are critical in the prevention and treatment of various blood disorders and anemias.
Hematologic disorders: Hematologic disorders are conditions that affect the blood and its components, including red and white blood cells, platelets, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. These disorders can impact the body's ability to carry oxygen, fight infections, and clot blood.
Hematologic wellness: Hematologic wellness refers to the optimal functioning of the blood and its components, including red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. It is crucial for carrying oxygen, fighting infection, and clotting blood efficiently.
Heme Iron: Heme iron is a form of dietary iron that is highly bioavailable and efficiently absorbed by the body. It is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
Hemochromatosis: Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder characterized by the excessive absorption and accumulation of iron in the body's organs and tissues, leading to a range of health issues if left untreated.
Holistic care: Holistic care is an approach to healthcare that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of a patient. It emphasizes comprehensive wellness rather than focusing solely on disease treatment.
Homocysteine: Homocysteine is an amino acid produced in the body as a byproduct of the metabolism of another amino acid called methionine. It is a key biomarker that can provide insights into various aspects of health, including neurological, hematological, and cardiovascular wellness.
Hypochromic Anemia: Hypochromic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by red blood cells that are smaller in size and contain less hemoglobin than normal. This condition impacts the hematological system by reducing the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity, leading to various health consequences.
Hypotension: Hypotension is a condition where blood pressure is lower than the normal range, typically defined as below 90/60 mm Hg. It can lead to insufficient blood flow to organs, causing symptoms like dizziness and fainting.
Intrinsic Factor: Intrinsic factor is a glycoprotein secreted by the parietal cells in the stomach. It is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the small intestine. Intrinsic factor plays a crucial role in maintaining neurological wellness and supporting the hematological system.
Iron: Iron is a crucial mineral essential for producing hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in the blood. It also plays a vital role in various metabolic processes and maintaining healthy cells, skin, hair, and nails.
Iron deficiency anemia: Iron deficiency anemia is a condition where there is an insufficient amount of iron in the body to produce adequate hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport. This can result in fatigue, weakness, and other health complications.
Iron Supplementation: Iron supplementation refers to the intake of additional iron beyond what is obtained through diet, typically in the form of oral iron supplements or intravenous iron infusions. This practice is employed to address iron deficiency or prevent iron-related health issues, particularly in the context of the hematological system and overall wellness.
Macrocytic anemia: Macrocytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by larger-than-normal red blood cells and a reduced ability to carry oxygen. It is often caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, impacting the hematologic system.
Malabsorption: Malabsorption is the impaired absorption of nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract. It can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, impacting overall health and wellness.
Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST): The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) is a screening tool used to identify adults who are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. It assesses nutritional status through body mass index (BMI), weight loss, and acute disease effect.
Megaloblastic Anemia: Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the presence of abnormally large red blood cells (megaloblasts) in the bone marrow. This condition arises due to a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, which are essential for the proper development and maturation of red blood cells.
Megaloblasts: Megaloblasts are abnormal, immature red blood cells that are larger than normal red blood cells. They are found in the bone marrow and indicate a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, which are essential for proper red blood cell development and maturation.
Methylmalonic Acid: Methylmalonic acid is a dicarboxylic acid that is an important intermediate in the breakdown of certain amino acids and odd-chain fatty acids. It is a key marker for the assessment and analysis of the impact of nutrition on the hematological system, as well as the planning of nutritional strategies to impact hematological wellness.
Microcytic anemia: Microcytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by smaller-than-normal red blood cells and reduced hemoglobin levels. It often results from iron deficiency or chronic disease.
Microcytic Anemia: Microcytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by small, abnormally small red blood cells (erythrocytes) with reduced hemoglobin content. This condition is often associated with nutritional deficiencies and can impact the hematological system.
Micronutrient deficiency: Micronutrient deficiency occurs when the body lacks essential vitamins and minerals required for optimal physiological function. It can lead to significant health issues, particularly affecting neurological, hematologic, and pulmonary systems.
Midarm circumference (MAC): Midarm circumference (MAC) is a measurement of the arm's circumference at the midpoint between the shoulder and elbow. It is used to assess nutritional status and muscle mass.
Mini Nutritional Assessment: The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is a validated screening tool used to identify malnutrition or risk of malnutrition in older adults. It evaluates various factors including dietary intake, weight loss, mobility, psychological stress, and body mass index (BMI).
Neutropenia: Neutropenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low count of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell essential for fighting infections. It can result from various factors including poor nutrition, certain medications, and underlying diseases.
Non-Heme Iron: Non-heme iron refers to the form of iron that is not bound to the heme molecule, which is the iron-containing component of hemoglobin and myoglobin. This type of iron is found in plant-based foods and some animal-based foods, and it is less readily absorbed by the body compared to heme iron.
Nutritional assessment: Nutritional assessment is the systematic process of evaluating an individual's nutritional status through various methods, including dietary, medical, and laboratory data. It helps determine nutrient deficiencies and excesses impacting overall health, particularly within the hematologic system.
Nutritional Risk in Critically Ill (NUTRIC): NUTRIC (Nutritional Risk in Critically Ill) is a scoring system used to assess the nutritional risk of critically ill patients. It helps determine which patients may benefit most from aggressive nutritional interventions to improve outcomes.
Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS2002): Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS2002) is a standardized tool used to identify patients at risk of malnutrition in clinical settings. It assesses nutritional status and severity of disease to determine the need for nutritional intervention.
Pallor: Pallor is the unusual lightness of skin color compared with your normal complexion. It can be a sign of various health conditions, including issues related to nutrition affecting the hematologic and pulmonary systems.
Pernicious Anemia: Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin. It is characterized by the body's inability to properly absorb and utilize this essential nutrient, leading to a reduction in red blood cell production and function.
Petechiae: Petechiae are small, red or purple spots caused by minor bleeding from broken capillary blood vessels. They can be an important clinical sign of underlying health issues, including nutritional deficiencies and hematologic conditions.
Pica: Pica is an eating disorder characterized by the persistent consumption of non-nutritive substances for at least one month. It can lead to serious health complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children.
Prealbumin: Prealbumin is a protein produced primarily by the liver, crucial for transporting thyroxine (T4) and retinol-binding protein bound to vitamin A. It is used as a marker to assess nutritional status and can indicate malnutrition or inflammation when levels are abnormal.
Protein: Proteins are large, complex molecules made up of amino acids that play many critical roles in the body. They are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.
Reticulocyte: Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells (RBCs) that have recently been released from the bone marrow into the bloodstream. They play a crucial role in assessing bone marrow activity and overall hematologic health.
Screening Tools: Screening tools are standardized instruments used to identify individuals at risk of malnutrition or other nutritional deficiencies. These tools help in early detection and intervention, crucial for maintaining hematologic health.
Scurvy: Scurvy is a nutritional deficiency disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. It is characterized by a range of symptoms that affect various bodily systems, including the hematological, musculoskeletal, and integumentary systems.
Serum Folate: Serum folate, also known as blood folate, is a measure of the amount of folate (vitamin B9) present in the blood. It is an important indicator of folate status and can provide insights into the impact of nutrition on the hematological system.
Serum Iron: Serum iron, also known as blood iron, refers to the amount of iron present in the liquid portion of the blood, known as the serum. It is a crucial indicator of the body's iron status and plays a vital role in the assessment and analysis of the impact of nutrition on the hematological system.
Tachycardia: Tachycardia is a condition characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate, typically defined as a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute in adults. It can be caused by various factors including stress, fever, anemia, and electrolyte imbalances.
Tachypnea: Tachypnea is the medical term for abnormally rapid breathing. It is often an indicator of underlying health issues, including those related to the hematologic system.
Thrombocytopenia: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood. This can lead to increased bleeding and bruising due to impaired clotting ability.
Transferrin: Transferrin is a glycoprotein primarily responsible for the transport of iron throughout the bloodstream to various tissues. It plays a crucial role in maintaining iron homeostasis and supporting various physiological functions, including neurological and hematologic wellness.
Transferrin: Transferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein found in the blood that plays a crucial role in the transport and regulation of iron within the body. It is a key component in the hematological system and is closely tied to protein metabolism and overall nutritional status.
Triceps skinfold thickness (TSF): Triceps skinfold thickness (TSF) measures the subcutaneous fat layer at the triceps area to estimate body fat percentage. It is an important anthropometric parameter used to assess nutritional status and caloric reserves.
Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. It is naturally found in animal products and can be taken as a supplement.
Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including the proper functioning of the nervous system, the formation of red blood cells, and the maintenance of DNA. It is a water-soluble vitamin that must be obtained from dietary sources or supplements.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body. It acts as an antioxidant and plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, immune function, and absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
Vitamin C deficiency: Vitamin C deficiency is a condition resulting from inadequate intake or absorption of vitamin C, leading to various health issues. It can impair the function of multiple systems, including the endocrine and hematologic systems.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus in the body, crucial for maintaining bone health. It can be obtained from sunlight exposure, dietary sources, and supplements.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. It plays a crucial role in immune function, skin health, and neurological wellness.
Vitamin K: Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting and bone health. It exists in two main forms: K1 (phylloquinone) found in plants, and K2 (menaquinone) produced by bacteria in the human gut.
Weight loss: Weight loss is the reduction of total body mass due to a decrease in fluid, fat, or lean mass. It can be intentional, such as through diet and exercise, or unintentional, often due to medical conditions.
Wound healing: Wound healing is the complex process by which the skin or other body tissue repairs itself after injury. It involves a series of overlapping phases including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.