A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 hours postoperative following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) gland. Which of the following assessments should the nurse view as an indication of a postoperative complication?

Choice A reason:
Hay fever allergy, also known as allergic rhinitis, is primarily associated with the action of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies and not directly with T-cells. T-cells can contribute to the regulation of the immune response in allergies, but IgE is the main immunoglobulin involved in the typical symptoms of hay fever.

Choice B reason:
Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that involves the release of large amounts of histamine and other chemicals from mast cells and basophils, often triggered by IgE antibodies. While T-cells can play a role in the sensitization phase of allergy, anaphylaxis itself is not directly caused by T-cells.

Choice C reason:
Transplant rejection is a process in which T-cells play a central role. When a transplant recipient's immune system recognizes the donated organ as foreign, T-cells can mediate the rejection by attacking the transplanted tissue, leading to its failure.

Choice D reason:
Bacterial phagocytosis is primarily the function of phagocytes like neutrophils and macrophages. T-cells are involved in the adaptive immune response and can activate phagocytes, but they do not directly perform phagocytosis.

Choice A reason: The use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) is indicated for anemia due to chemotherapy¹. However, the client's hemoglobin (Hgb) level is 12.1 g/dL, which is within the normal range (normal: 12-15.5 g/dL for women). Therefore, administering an ESA is not indicated based on the Hgb level provided.

Choice B reason: A diet with increased protein can be beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy as it helps in tissue repair and immune system function. However, the client's albumin level is 4.5 g/dL, which falls within the normal range (normal: 3.4-5.4 g/dL), suggesting adequate protein intake. Thus, there is no indication that the client requires an increased protein diet based on the albumin level provided.

Choice C reason: The client's white blood cell (WBC) count is 1,400/mm³, which is below the normal range (normal: 4,500-11,000/mm³). This condition, known as leukopenia, significantly increases the risk of infection³. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize monitoring for signs of infection and implementing infection control measures.

Choice D reason: The client's platelet count is 170,000/mm³, which is within the normal range (normal: 150,000-450,000/mm³). Although cisplatin can cause thrombocytopenia, the current platelet count does not indicate an increased risk for bleeding⁴. Therefore, this choice is not correct based on the platelet count provided.