A client with leukemia who is receiving myelosuppressive chemotherapy has a platelet count of 25,000/mm3 (25 x 109/L). Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in this client's plan of care?
Reference Range:
Platelet Count [150,000 to 400,000/mm3 (156 400 x 109/L)]
Assess urine and stool for occult blood.
Obtain client's temperature every 4 hours.
Monitor for signs of activity intolerance
Require visitors to wear respiratory masks.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Correct- With a significantly low platelet count, the risk of bleeding is elevated. Assessing urine and stool for occult (hidden) blood is important to detect any signs of internal bleeding that may not be immediately apparent. A low platelet count increases the risk of spontaneous bleeding, which can be life-threatening if undetected.
B) Incorrect- This choice is related to neutropenia, not thrombocytopenia. Neutropenia, or low neutrophil count, increases the risk of infection, which is why monitoring temperature frequently is important.
C) Incorrect- Monitoring for signs of activity intolerance is not directly related to the low platelet count. The primary concern with thrombocytopenia is the risk of bleeding, not generalized activity intolerance.
D) Incorrect- Requiring visitors to wear respiratory masks is not relevant to the client's current condition of low platelet count. This action is related to infection control and protection from respiratory infections.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Fever increases fluid loss through perspiration.
Increased respiratory rate can lead to increased fluid loss through evaporation. Increased nasal secretions can result in fluid loss.
High oxygen flow can cause drying of the mucous membranes and increase fluid requirements.
The following findings do not necessarily indicate increased fluid requirements: Blood pressure alone does not indicate increased fluid requirements.
Oxygen saturation within the normal range does not indicate increased fluid requirements.
Although urine output is important to assess hydration status, 12 mL of urine may not necessarily indicate increased fluid requirements.
Heart rate alone does not indicate increased fluid requirements.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
A. Prolonged standing or sitting can worsen venous insufficiency and increase the risk of blood pooling in the legs. Encouraging the client to move around and avoid prolonged periods of immobility can help improve circulation.
B. Compression stockings help improve blood flow by applying pressure to the legs, reducing swelling and preventing blood from pooling. The client should be instructed to continue wearing them as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
C.Crossing the legs can impede blood flow and should be avoided altogether.
D. Sitting for extended periods can also contribute to blood pooling. Using a recliner allows the client to elevate their legs, promoting better circulation and reducing the risk of complications. The nurse should recommend using a recliner when sitting for long periods of time.
E.Elevating legs during sleep is generally advised to reduce venous pressure.
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