A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving cisplatin for the treatment of ovarian cancer. The client's most recent complete blood count (CBC) is shown in the table below. It is important for the nurse to consider which of the following for the client?
- WBC: 1,400/mm³
- RBC: 4.3 x 10¹²/L
- Hgb: 12.1 g/dL
- Hct: 36.5%
- Platelets: 170,000/mm³
- Albumin: 4.5 g/dL
Given the options:
The client should receive an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent.
The client should receive a diet with increased protein.
The client has an increased risk of infection.
The client has an increased risk for bleeding.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Bathroom privileges after premedication are not typically restricted unless the premedication impairs the client's ability to ambulate safely. However, it is important to ensure that the client does not fall or injure themselves due to the effects of the medication.
Choice B reason:
Drinking 8 oz of water is generally not advised immediately before surgery due to the risk of aspiration during anesthesia. Clients are usually instructed to fast, which includes not drinking any liquids, for a certain period before surgery.
Choice C reason:
Preoperative diazepam may be administered 30 minutes before surgery to help reduce anxiety and induce sedation. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that can calm the client and facilitate a smoother induction of anesthesia.
Choice D reason:
Enema administration is not a standard preoperative procedure for a client undergoing a cholecystectomy unless there is a specific indication. The primary focus is on preventing infection and managing pain.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The instruction to urinate a small amount into the toilet before collecting the sample is correct because it helps clear the urethra of organisms that could contaminate the specimen. This initial void helps to flush out bacteria that are present at the opening of the urethra.
Choice B Reason:
This choice is incorrect because urine samples should be kept at body temperature and sent to the lab as soon as possible. Cooling the urine can lead to precipitation of solutes and may affect the results of certain tests.
Choice C Reason:
This statement is incorrect. The proper technique for cleansing prior to urine collection is to wipe from front to back, not back to front. Wiping from back to front can contaminate the urine with bacteria from the anal area.
Choice D Reason:
It is advisable not to collect a urine sample during menstruation unless absolutely necessary because menstrual blood can contaminate the urine specimen, leading to inaccurate test results.
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