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 {"A":{"answers":"A,B"},"B":{"answers":"A,B"},"C":{"answers":"A,B"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A,B"}}
Explanation
A high white blood cell (WBC) count in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is more commonly associated with bacterial meningitis, characterized by a high neutrophil count, low glucose, and high protein levels. it is also seen in encephalitis and reflects the individual cell lines that are affected.
Muscle weakness and altered levels of consciousness can occur in both conditions but are more prominent in encephalitis, which often presents with focal neurological deficits and seizures. The
Kernig sign, a classical sign of meningitis, is a physical examination finding that indicates irritation of the meninges and supports a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis when positive.
An elevated body temperature is common in bacterial meningitis, but it is not exclusive and can be observed in encephalitis as well.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A leg and ankle fracture is serious but typically not life-threatening compared to issues involving airway obstruction or severe bleeding.
B. Flank pain radiating to the groin may indicate a kidney stone or other condition, but it is less urgent than airway obstruction.
C. A raised red rash on the abdomen could be a sign of a less urgent condition, such as a viral infection or allergic reaction, and does not require immediate intervention compared to respiratory distress.
D. Expiratory stridor indicates upper airway obstruction or severe respiratory distress, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention. Stridor suggests possible airway compromise, which needs to be addressed urgently to prevent respiratory failure.
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