A client on a medical-surgical unit has been diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome. The nurse understands that in addition to supportive care, which treatment can be used within the first 2 weeks of symptom onset?

A. Petechiae are tiny, pinpoint, red or purple spots on the skin or mucous membranes, caused by bleeding under the skin. While petechiae can indicate bleeding, they are not specific to HIT and can occur due to various reasons, including low platelet count or coagulation disorders. They do not necessarily indicate thrombotic complications associated with HIT.
B. This hemoglobin level is within the normal range for adults and does not directly correlate with HIT. However, it is important to monitor hemoglobin levels in patients with HIT due to the risk of bleeding and thrombosis.
C. Bleeding gums can occur due to various reasons, including gum disease or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). In HIT, the concern is not just bleeding but also the paradoxical risk of thrombosis despite low platelet counts. Bleeding from mucosal surfaces can indicate underlying thrombocytopenia but does not specifically highlight the thrombotic risk of HIT.
D. This symptom is concerning for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a thrombotic complication associated with HIT. HIT predisposes patients to thrombosis due to the formation of antibodies against

platelet factor 4/heparin complexes, leading to platelet activation and clot formation. DVT is a serious complication that requires immediate intervention to prevent pulmonary embolism (PE).

A. Allowing the affected skin to be exposed to air can help in promoting healing and preventing further irritation. However, it's essential to ensure the environment is clean and that the area is protected from friction and contamination.
B. Ice packs should be avoided as they can cause further irritation to the radiated skin, and alcohol- based lotions can be drying and may exacerbate skin reactions.

C. Alcohol-based lotions can be drying and irritating to sensitive, radiation-treated skin. It's preferable to use gentle, non-alcohol-based moisturizers or barrier creams that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. These can help soothe the skin and prevent excessive dryness and irritation.
D. Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing of radiation-damaged skin. It is gentle and generally well-tolerated by most individuals.
E. Betadine (povidone-iodine) can be too harsh for radiation-damaged skin and may further irritate the area. Gentle cleansing with mild soap and water is recommended to keep the area clean and minimize the risk of infection.