A client has an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of 500/mm³ (0.5 x 10⁹/L) after completing chemotherapy. Which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Reference Range:
Neutrophils (ANC) [2500 to 5800/mm³ (2.5 to 5.8 x 10⁹/L)]
Review need for pneumococcal vaccine.
Implement bleeding precautions.
Assess vital signs every 4 hours.
Place the client in protective isolation.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because reviewing the need for pneumococcal vaccine is not the most important intervention for the nurse to implement. Pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for people who are at high risk of pneumococcal infections, such as those with chronic diseases or immunosuppression. However, it is not a priority action for a client with neutropenia, which is a low number of neutrophils that increases the risk of bacterial and fungal infections.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because implementing bleeding precautions is not the most important intervention for the nurse to implement. Bleeding precautions are indicated for clients who have thrombocytopenia, which is a low number of platelets that impairs blood clotting. However, this is not the case for a client with neutropenia, which affects the white blood cells that fight infections.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect because assessing vital signs every 4 hours is not the most important intervention for the nurse to implement. Vital signs are important indicators of the client's health status and may reveal signs of infection, such as fever, tachycardia, or hypotension. However, this is not a sufficient measure to prevent or treat infections in a client with neutropenia, who needs more aggressive and proactive interventions.
Choice D reason: This is correct because placing the client in protective isolation is the most important intervention for the nurse to implement. Protective isolation, also known as reverse isolation or neutropenic precautions, is a set of measures that aim to protect the client from exposure to pathogens that may cause infections. These include wearing gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection; using sterile equipment and techniques; avoiding contact with people who are sick or have infections; and restricting visitors and fresh flowers or fruits.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Measuring capillary glucose level is not a priority action for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels, but this is not an urgent concern in this situation.
Choice B reason: Encouraging ambulation in the room is not appropriate for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Ambulation can worsen the pain and inflammation, and increase the risk of bowel perforation.
Choice C reason: Monitoring for bloody diarrheal stools is important for a client with IBD, but not a priority action for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Bloody stools can be a sign of ulceration or bleeding in the bowel, but they are not specific to peritonitis.
Choice D reason: Obtaining vital sign measurements is the priority action for a client with a rigid abdomen and rebound tenderness. These signs indicate peritonitis, which is a serious complication of IBD that requires immediate attention. Vital signs can reveal signs of infection, inflammation, shock, and organ failure, which can guide the appropriate interventions and treatments.
Correct Answer is ["F","H"]
Explanation
a) Basic metabolic panel: This is a blood test that measures the levels of electrolytes, glucose, calcium, and kidney function. It is not a priority order for this client because her glucose level is within the normal range and her symptoms are not indicative of electrolyte imbalance or kidney failure.
b) Echocardiogram: This is a test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart and its valves, chambers, and blood flow. It is not a priority order for this client because her chest discomfort may not be related to a cardiac problem and her SpO2 is normal, indicating adequate oxygenation.
c) CT scan of abdomen: This is a test that uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of the organs and structures in the abdomen. It is not a priority order for this client because her abdominal pain is not severe or acute and her nausea and poor appetite may be due to her illness or dialysis.
d) Blood cultures times 2 sets: This is a test that checks for the presence of bacteria or fungi in the blood. It is not a priority order for this client because she does not have signs of infection such as fever, chills, or leukocytosis.
e) Chest X-ray: This is a test that uses X-rays to create images of the lungs and chest wall. It is not a priority order for this client because she does not have respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or wheezes.
f) Place on continuous cardiac monitor: This is an order that requires the nurse to attach electrodes to the client's chest and monitor the heart rate and rhythm continuously. This is a priority order for this client because she has a history of CAD and HTN and reports chest discomfort and lightheadedness, which could indicate a possible myocardial infarction (heart attack) or arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).
g) CBC: This is a blood test that measures the number and types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is not a priority order for this client because she does not have signs of anemia, bleeding, or infection.
h) 12 lead EKG: This is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart from 12 different angles. It can detect abnormalities in the heart's rhythm, conduction, or damage. This is a priority order for this client because she has a history of CAD and HTN and reports chest discomfort and lightheadedness, which could indicate a possible myocardial infarction (heart attack) or arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today