Objectives: To examine how pediatric and adult central nervous system (CNS) tumors differ and to discuss the unique aspects of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term effects of brain tumors in children.
Data sources: Research, review articles, book chapters, and abstracts.
Conclusions: A child's growing and developing body and brain place him or her at great risk for permanent damage as a result of traditional treatment methods. A family-centered nursing approach assists the child and family in coping with the impact of a brain tumor.
Implications for nursing practice: Children have unique needs during and following treatment for CNS tumors. All oncology nurses need to be fully informed about and help monitor for intellectual, endocrinologic, and oncogenic late effects from the disease and treatment.