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 B
Explanation
A.Protect the site from getting wet during bathing. While it is important to avoid prolonged soaking, gentle rinsing with water is usually allowed. Complete avoidance of water is not typically necessary.Gentle bathing is important for hygiene.
B.Gently patting the skin dry after rinsing with water is a good practice as it helps to minimize friction and irritation to the sensitive skin. Rubbing or scrubbing the skin should be avoided.
C. Applying moisturizers to prevent dry skin can be beneficial for overall skin health, but it is important to consult with the healthcare team and follow specific instructions regarding the use of moisturizers during radiation therapy. Certain types of moisturizers or creams may interfere with the radiation treatment or cause skin irritation. Frequent application is not always necessary. Over-hydration can soften the skin and increase vulnerability.
D.Using a sponge to debride the affected area is not recommended during radiation therapy. The skin in the radiation treatment field is already sensitive and prone to damage, and using a sponge for debridement can further traumatize the skin. It is important to avoid any abrasive or rough handling of the treated skin.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice c. Inform the client that gradual tapering must be used to discontinue the medication.
Choice A rationale:
While discussing medication side effects with the healthcare provider is important, it does not address the immediate concern of discontinuing the medication safely. The nurse should provide guidance on the proper discontinuation process.
Choice B rationale:
Telling the client that side effects will most likely dissipate over time may not be accurate for all individuals and does not address the client’s desire to stop the medication.
Choice C rationale:
Informing the client that gradual tapering must be used to discontinue the medication is crucial. Abruptly stopping antidepressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a potential relapse of depression.
Choice D rationale:
Reminding the client that feeling better is the therapeutic effect of the medication is true, but it does not address the client’s concern about discontinuing the medication safely.
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