Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test 2025 - Free AOCNP Practice Questions and Study Guide

The management of elevated potassium levels during tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) often includes aggressive hydration. This is an effective treatment strategy because it helps to promote adequate kidney perfusion and therefore enhances renal excretion of potassium. Hydration contributes to dilution and can help reduce the risk of acute kidney injury, which may occur as cells break down and release their contents into the bloodstream, increasing potassium levels.

In TLS, the rapid release of intracellular substances during tumor cell lysis can lead to significant metabolic abnormalities, including hyperuricemia and hyperkalemia. During this phase, ensuring proper fluid balance is critical, as hydration assists in flushing out excess potassium from the body and mitigating the associated risks of cardiac complications, such as arrhythmias, that can arise from high potassium levels.

While diuretics might seem like a suitable option to promote potassium excretion, they are not always effective and may lead to dehydration if not used carefully. Allopurinol is primarily used to prevent the formation of uric acid, and beta-blockers have no direct impact on potassium levels in the context of TLS. Therefore, aggressive hydration is a fundamental approach to addressing elevated potassium levels during TLS.