A client on the oncology unit is receiving a chemotherapy agent, and the nurse is aware that a significant side effect of this medication is thrombocytopenia. For which symptom should the nurse assess in clients at risk for thrombocytopenia?
Petechiae
Decreased white blood cell count
Increased fatigue
Unexplained bone pain
The Correct Answer is A
A. Petechiae are small, red or purple spots on the skin that indicate bleeding under the skin and are a classic sign of thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by a low platelet count.
B. A decreased white blood cell count is more indicative of leukopenia, not thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia specifically affects platelet counts.
C. Increased fatigue can be a symptom of many conditions but is not specific to thrombocytopenia. It may occur due to anemia or other side effects of chemotherapy.
D. Unexplained bone pain is not a typical symptom of thrombocytopenia. It might be related to other conditions or side effects but is not specific to low platelet counts.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The treatment for vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE) in a previous admission is not directly related to the development of CLABSI in the current situation. The infection is more likely caused by improper handling or maintenance of the central line.
B. Drawing blood cultures from the central line, while not ideal, is not the most likely cause of CLABSI. Proper technique can mitigate the risk of introducing infection during this procedure.
C. Changing the central line dressing using clean technique instead of sterile technique increases the risk of introducing pathogens to the central line site, leading to a central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI).
D. Receiving antibiotics and intravenous fluids through the same line does not typically cause CLABSI if the line is properly maintained and sterile techniques are observed during administration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Feeling hot and sweaty can occur during autonomic dysreflexia, but it is a symptom of the condition rather than a cause or risk factor.
B. Bladder distension is a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia, a condition that occurs in individuals with spinal cord injuries at or above the T6 level, due to the excessive autonomic response to noxious stimuli such as a full bladder.
C. Elevated blood pressure is a sign of autonomic dysreflexia, but the risk factor to recognize is the underlying cause, such as bladder distension.
D. A severe headache is a symptom of autonomic dysreflexia, indicating the need for immediate action, but it is not a risk factor for developing the condition.
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