A nurse is assisting in the plan of care for a client who has thrombocytopenia. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?
Check the client for ecchymosis.
Initiate protective isolation for the client.
Administer ibuprofen for mild headache.
Instruct the client to shave with a disposable razor.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Checking the client for ecchymosis is appropriate. Thrombocytopenia increases the risk of bleeding and bruising, so monitoring for ecchymosis (bruising) is essential to detect any signs of bleeding. Ecchymosis can occur more easily in individuals with low platelet counts.
Choice B Reason:
Initiating protective isolation for the client is typically unnecessary solely due to thrombocytopenia. Protective isolation is generally for clients with conditions that compromise their immune system or make them more susceptible to infections.
Choice C Reason:
Administering ibuprofen for a mild headache might not be advisable in someone with thrombocytopenia because ibuprofen can affect platelet function and potentially increase the risk of bleeding.
Choice D Reason:
Instructing the client to shave with a disposable razor isn't recommended because using a sharp blade can increase the risk of cuts and bleeding in someone with a low platelet count. Using an electric razor or avoiding shaving might be safer options to prevent injury and bleeding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Bilirubin 1.0 mg/dL (0.3 to 1.0 mg/dL) is incorrect. Bilirubin levels within the normal range typically indicate normal liver function. The value of 1.0 mg/dL falls within the expected range, so it doesn't raise immediate concerns regarding the need for a liver biopsy.
Choice B Reason:
Aspartate aminotransferase 34 units/L (0 to 34 units/L) is incorrect. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in various tissues, including the liver, heart, muscles, and red blood cells. While a value of 34 units/L is at the upper limit of the normal range, it's still within the expected range and doesn't typically prompt immediate concern for the need for a biopsy.
Choice C Reason:
Ammonia 55 mcg/dL (10 to 80 mcg/dL ) is incorrect. Ammonia levels can rise in cases of liver dysfunction. The level of 55 mcg/dL falls within the reference range, indicating normal or near-normal ammonia levels, which doesn't usually necessitate an urgent liver biopsy.
Choice D Reason:
Platelets 60,000/mm3 (150,000 to 400,000/mm3) is correct. Platelets are crucial for blood clotting. A significantly low platelet count, such as 60,000/mm3, termed thrombocytopenia, can indicate compromised clotting ability, which might pose a risk of bleeding during or after a liver biopsy. In the context of a liver biopsy, a low platelet count warrants attention and consideration before proceeding with the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding or complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Replace the unit when the drainage chamber is full is correct. Regularly emptying the drainage chamber when it becomes full is essential to ensure the drainage system functions properly and continues to effectively remove fluids or air from the chest cavity.
Choice B Reason:
Clamp the tube for 30 min every 8 hr. is incorrect.
Clamping a chest tube without a specific medical order or indication can lead to complications such as a buildup of pressure within the chest cavity or potential damage to the lungs. It's generally not a routine action to clamp the tube without proper instruction.
Choice C Reason:
Pin the tubing to the client's bed sheets is incorrect. Pinning the tubing to the bed sheets can cause tension on the chest tube, leading to accidental dislodgment or obstruction. The tubing should be secured but not pinned to prevent inadvertent movement.
Choice D Reason:
Monitor for at least 150 mL of drainage every hour is incorrect. There isn't a standard or prescribed amount of drainage that should occur hourly. The nurse should monitor the drainage rate and characteristics but shouldn't expect a specific volume within a set timeframe. Monitoring for excessive or decreased drainage and changes in characteristics is crucial, but an hourly volume expectation isn't appropriate.
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