American family physician
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Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is now potentially preventable. Although scalp tourniquets and hypothermia are neither universally applicable nor always successful, they represent simple and relatively inexpensive methods for reducing hair loss. When successful, these techniques help maintain the patient's self-image and thereby diminish the devastating psychologic effects that accompany a diagnosis of cancer.
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Shock is a consequence of insufficient blood flow for adequate oxygenation at the cellular level. Early recognition of the signs permits prompt therapy to maintain the effective circulating volume before irreparable organ damage occurs. ⋯ Replacement of red blood cells may be required for acute blood loss of more than 25 percent of the patient's circulating volume. Adequate arterial PO2 is essential for maintaining cellular oxygenation.