A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving chemotherapy. The client's most recent lab results show a white blood cell count of 3,100/mm3, and a platelet count of 280,000/mm3. Based on these lab results, which nursing action is appropriate for this client?

Provide the client with an electric shaver for grooming.

Move the client to a negative pressure isolation room.

Encourage the client to select cooked vegetables rather than a salad for their lunch tray.

Educate the client to dab their nose, rather than forcefully blow their nose.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A.   This option is appropriate because the client's low white blood cell count (3,100/mm³) suggests they are at risk for infection due to chemotherapy-induced immunosuppression. Using an electric shaver reduces the risk of cuts and nicks that could potentially lead to infections.

B.   This option is not necessary based on the client's current lab results. Negative pressure isolation rooms are typically reserved for clients with severely compromised immune systems, such as those with very low neutrophil counts (neutropenia). A white blood cell count of 3,100/mm³ is within a range where standard precautions are usually sufficient.
C.   This option addresses food safety precautions for clients with neutropenia (low white blood cell count). Raw vegetables, including salads, have a higher risk of harboring bacteria that could cause infections. Therefore, cooked vegetables are safer for clients with compromised immune systems.
D.   This option is appropriate because chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (low platelet count of 280,000/mm³) increases the risk of bleeding. Forceful blowing of the nose can traumatize the nasal mucosa and increase the risk of nosebleeds. Dabbing the nose gently is a safer method to avoid nosebleeds.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is ["A","D"]

Explanation

A. Allowing the affected skin to be exposed to air can help in promoting healing and preventing further irritation. However, it's essential to ensure the environment is clean and that the area is protected from friction and contamination.
B. Ice packs should be avoided as they can cause further irritation to the radiated skin, and alcohol- based lotions can be drying and may exacerbate skin reactions.

C. Alcohol-based lotions can be drying and irritating to sensitive, radiation-treated skin. It's preferable to use gentle, non-alcohol-based moisturizers or barrier creams that are specifically designed for sensitive skin. These can help soothe the skin and prevent excessive dryness and irritation.
D. Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing of radiation-damaged skin. It is gentle and generally well-tolerated by most individuals.
E. Betadine (povidone-iodine) can be too harsh for radiation-damaged skin and may further irritate the area. Gentle cleansing with mild soap and water is recommended to keep the area clean and minimize the risk of infection.

A. Atrial flutter B. Atrial fibrillation C. Unstable angina D. Premature atrial contractions (PACS)

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Atrial flutter typically presents with a regular atrial rate (usually around 250-350 beats per minute) and a characteristic "sawtooth" pattern of flutter waves (F-waves) on the ECG. This condition would not present with irregular ventricular rates and is less likely based on the ECG findings described.

B. Atrial fibrillation is identified by an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of P-waves on the ECG, which is replaced by erratic activity.
C. Unstable angina presents with chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscles, usually related to atherosclerotic plaque rupture or erosion. It does not cause the ECG findings described (absence of P-waves and irregular ventricular rate).
D. PACs are early atrial depolarizations that can cause palpitations but do not typically result in the absence of P-waves or irregular ventricular rates as described in the scenario.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving chemotherapy. The client's most recent lab results show a white blood cell count of 3,100/mm3, and a platelet count of 280,000/mm3. Based on these lab results, which nursing action is appropriate for this client?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client who is undergoing external beam radiation for prostate cancer has developed desquamation of the skin in the treatment area. Which of the following statements should the nurse plan to include for this patient? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer is ["A","D"]

Explanation

A client in an urgent care clinic is complaining of heart palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) shows no discernable P-waves, and an irregular ventricular rate. The nurse should understand that this finding represents which of the following conditions?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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