A client presents to the medical surgical unit.

Which of the following findings requires further action by the nurse? Select all that apply.

A) Decreased platelets: A decrease in platelet count (thrombocytopenia) is often associated with conditions such as bleeding disorders, bone marrow problems, or certain infections, but it is not a direct indicator of infection. While infections can cause a drop in platelets, this is not a specific or primary indicator of infection.

B) Decreased hemoglobin: A decrease in hemoglobin is typically indicative of anemia, which can result from a variety of causes, including nutritional deficiencies, chronic disease, or blood loss. While anemia can be associated with some infections, it is not a specific indicator of infection.

C) Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): An increased ESR is a nonspecific indicator of inflammation in the body and can be associated with infections, autoimmune diseases, and other inflammatory conditions. It is commonly elevated during infections, as the body responds to the inflammatory process. Therefore, an elevated ESR is a useful laboratory finding when suspecting an infection.

D) Increased iron level: Increased iron levels are typically associated with conditions such as hemochromatosis or iron overload, not with infections. During infections, iron levels can actually decrease due to the body's response to restrict iron availability to pathogens.

A) "It takes 2 months of scheduled use before this medication is effective.":
This statement is incorrect. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that works to prevent asthma symptoms and improve lung function. It typically takes a few days to a week for the medication to become effective, not 2 months. Immediate relief is not expected, but long-term benefits can be seen within a relatively short period after starting the medication.

B) "I will give this medication to my child every 2 hours if he is wheezing.":
This statement is incorrect. Montelukast is a maintenance medication that is taken on a daily basis to prevent asthma symptoms. It is not a rescue medication and should not be used every 2 hours when the child is wheezing. Rescue medications like short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol) should be used during an asthma attack or when wheezing occurs.

C) "I will give this medication to my child once daily in the evening.":
This statement is correct. Montelukast is typically taken once daily in the evening. It helps to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms, and taking it in the evening aligns with the medication's intended use for long-term control of asthma.

D) "I can stop giving my child this medication if he is taking steroids.":
This statement is incorrect. Montelukast is often used alongside steroids (inhaled corticosteroids) for managing asthma. The two medications work in different ways, and discontinuing montelukast while continuing steroids may not provide optimal asthma control. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the use of both medications.