A client diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) develops a platelet count of 10,000 mm3 during chemotherapy treatment. What is an appropriate nursing intervention for this client, based on this finding?

Table 34.1 Review of Normal Ranges for Complete Blood Cell Counts (Adult)

Blood Cell

Normal Ranges

Red blood cells (mature, circulating)

Male: 451-6.01 million/mm3

Female: 4.01-5.51 million/mm3

Hemoglobin

Adult (15-64 yr)

Male 14-17.3 g/dL

Female 11.7-155 g/dL

Hematocrit

42%-52% in males

36% -48% in females

Reticulocytes

0.5% -2.5% of total RBC count

White blood cells (total)

4.5-11.1 10/mm3

Neutrophils

59%

Bands 3% Segs-56%

Eosinophils

2.7%

Basophils

0.5%

Lymphocytes

34%

Monocytes

4%

Platelets

150,000-450,000/mm3

Obtain a prescription for stool occult blood testing

Encourage intake of oral fluids to 3000 mL/day

Assess the temperature every four hours

Provide oral hygiene every two hours

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   This intervention can be appropriate since a very low platelet count increases the risk of bleeding, including gastrointestinal bleeding. However, this action alone does not directly address the immediate risks associated with the low platelet count.
B.   While hydration is important for overall health, this intervention does not specifically address the risks associated with a low platelet count. Additionally, excessive fluid intake may not be appropriate for all patients, especially if there are underlying kidney issues or fluid restrictions.
C.   Clients with AML and low platelet counts are at increased risk for infections and may develop febrile neutropenia. Monitoring temperature every four hours can help detect early signs of infection, allowing for timely intervention.
D.   While maintaining oral hygiene is important, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy, this intervention may not be the most critical action based on the acute concern of a very low platelet count. However, it is important to note that patients with low platelet counts may also experience bleeding from the gums, making gentle oral care essential.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. While blood vessel spasms can occur after a stroke, t-PA does not directly affect them.
B. Platelet aggregation is the process by which platelets stick together to form a clot. t-PA dissolves clots, but it does not prevent their formation.
C. Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is a medication that can dissolve blood clots. In the case of a thrombotic stroke, a blood clot has blocked blood flow to the brain. By dissolving the clot, t-PA can restore blood flow and limit brain damage.
D. t-PA does not have any direct effect on the risk of infection in the brain.

A. Hemoglobin of 14 g/dL B. Platelet count 150,000 mm3 C. White blood cell count 17,000 mm3 D. Neutrophils 59%

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. This value is within the normal range for adult males (14-17.3 g/dL) and borderline for females (11.7- 15.5 g/dL). While the specific context of the patient (e.g., gender) matters, generally, a hemoglobin level of 14 g/dL would not typically cause concern.

B. A platelet count of 150,000/mm³ is at the lower limit of normal (150,000-450,000/mm³). While this may be concerning in certain clinical contexts, it is still within the acceptable range and would not typically raise alarm for a post-op nephrectomy patient unless there are other indications of bleeding or clotting issues.
C. This white blood cell count is elevated (normal range is 4.5-11.1 x 10³/mm³). An elevated WBC count can indicate an infection, inflammation, or a response to surgery, which is particularly concerning post- operatively. This result would warrant further investigation to rule out infection, which is critical for recovery.
D. The neutrophil percentage of 59% is within the normal range (typically around 40-70% for total WBCs). While it is slightly elevated, it is not concerning on its own without additional context, especially since it may be elevated in response to surgery or stress.

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Blood Cell	Normal Ranges
Red blood cells (mature, circulating)	Male: 451-6.01 million/mm3 Female: 4.01-5.51 million/mm3
Hemoglobin	Adult (15-64 yr) Male 14-17.3 g/dL Female 11.7-155 g/dL
Hematocrit	42%-52% in males 36% -48% in females
Reticulocytes	0.5% -2.5% of total RBC count
White blood cells (total)	4.5-11.1 10/mm3
Neutrophils	59% Bands 3% Segs-56%
Eosinophils	2.7%
Basophils	0.5%
Lymphocytes	34%
Monocytes	4%

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a client who had a thrombotic stroke in the Emergency Department. It has been less than 3 hours since the onset of symptoms. The rationale for using tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) for this client is to:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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