A nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with thrombocytopenia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize to ensure the safety of the patient?
Encourage the patient to engage in strenuous exercise to improve circulation
Instruct the patient to use an electric razor for shaving
Teach the patient to use a water pick for oral hygiene
Request an order for subcutaneous heparin to prevent blood clots
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Encouraging the patient to engage in strenuous exercise to improve circulation is not appropriate for someone with thrombocytopenia. Strenuous exercise can increase the risk of injury and bleeding, which is particularly dangerous for patients with a low platelet count.
Choice B reason: Instructing the patient to use an electric razor for shaving is the most appropriate intervention. Thrombocytopenia increases the risk of bleeding, and using an electric razor instead of a traditional blade helps minimize the risk of cuts and subsequent bleeding.
Choice C reason: Teaching the patient to use a water pick for oral hygiene is not recommended for thrombocytopenia patients. Water picks can cause bleeding of the gums, which is a concern for individuals with low platelet counts. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is safer.
Choice D reason: Requesting an order for subcutaneous heparin to prevent blood clots is not advisable for a thrombocytopenia patient without specific medical indication. Heparin is an anticoagulant, and administering it to someone with low platelets can exacerbate the risk of bleeding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Anorexia, nausea, and vomiting are not typical findings associated with Cushing syndrome. These symptoms can be related to other medical conditions but do not specifically indicate Cushing syndrome.
Choice B reason: Truncal obesity, thin extremities, and rounding of the face (moon face) are classic signs of Cushing syndrome. This condition leads to fat redistribution, resulting in increased fat around the trunk and face while the extremities appear thinner. The distinctive appearance of moon face is due to fat accumulation.
Choice C reason: Purplish streaks on the abdomen, also known as striae, are a common feature of Cushing syndrome. These stretch marks occur due to the excessive production of cortisol, which weakens the connective tissue, leading to skin changes.
Choice D reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is frequently seen in patients with Cushing syndrome. The excess cortisol increases glucose production and decreases insulin sensitivity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Choice E reason: A bronzed appearance of the skin is not a typical finding of Cushing syndrome. This symptom is more commonly associated with Addison's disease, which involves adrenal insufficiency rather than excess cortisol production seen in Cushing syndrome.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Urine output of 30 mL/hr is concerning as it is on the lower end of normal and can indicate dehydration or impaired renal function. However, in this context, it is less immediately alarming compared to severely low blood pressure.
Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 90/40 is critically low and indicates hypotension, which can be a sign of severe dehydration or shock, especially in a patient with ongoing nausea and vomiting. This requires immediate attention and intervention to stabilize the patient and prevent further complications.
Choice C reason: An infiltrated IV site is a problem that needs to be addressed to ensure proper administration of fluids and medications. However, it is not as immediately life-threatening as hypotension.
Choice D reason: Oral fluid intake of 100 mL for 8 hours is inadequate, suggesting that the patient may be dehydrated. While concerning, it is not as acutely critical as low blood pressure, which directly affects perfusion and organ function.
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