A nurse is conducting a physical examination of a patient suspected of having thrombocytopenia.
What assessment findings should the nurse prioritize to identify potential causes and types of thrombocytopenia?

The presence of lymphadenopathy.

The patient's history of herbal supplements.

Signs of infection or organ dysfunction.

The size and shape of platelets on a peripheral blood smear.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

The presence of lymphadenopathy Lymphadenopathy refers to the enlargement of lymph nodes and is not a primary assessment finding to identify potential causes and types of thrombocytopenia.

While it may be relevant in some cases, it is not as prioritized as signs of infection or organ dysfunction.

Choice B rationale:

The patient's history of herbal supplements While the patient's history of herbal supplements is important to assess for potential causes of thrombocytopenia, it is not the most immediate assessment finding to prioritize.

Signs of infection or organ dysfunction are more crucial in the initial assessment as they may indicate acute and potentially life-threatening conditions.

Choice D rationale:

The size and shape of platelets on a peripheral blood smear The size and shape of platelets are important for diagnosing specific types of thrombocytopenia but are typically not the initial priority in the assessment.

Identifying signs of infection or organ dysfunction takes precedence because they can guide immediate intervention.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

"The platelet count is likely within the normal range." Rationale: This statement is unlikely to be true.

Given that the patient is presenting with mucosal bleeding, including petechiae, purpura, and gingival bleeding, it suggests a potential problem with platelet function.

Platelet counts within the normal range do not typically lead to these bleeding symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

"The platelet count may be below 50,000/uL, indicating a risk of prolonged bleeding." Rationale: This statement is accurate.

The symptoms described (petechiae, purpura, and gingival bleeding) are indicative of thrombocytopenia, where the platelet count is typically below 50,000/uL.

This lower count increases the risk of prolonged bleeding and bruising.

Choice C rationale:

"The platelet count is typically above 100,000/uL in thrombocytopenia." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.

Thrombocytopenia is characterized by a decrease in platelet count, often below 100,000/uL, as seen in choice B.

A platelet count above 100,000/uL is not typical in thrombocytopenia.

Choice D rationale:

"The platelet count does not affect bleeding symptoms." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

Platelet count plays a significant role in the body's ability to form blood clots and prevent bleeding.

Low platelet counts can lead to bleeding symptoms, as described in the patient's presentation of mucosal bleeding.

Platelet count is indeed relevant in assessing and managing bleeding risk in thrombocytopenia.

A. "A platelet count below 100,000/uL is considered normal.” B. "A platelet count below 50,000/uL can result in prolonged bleeding.” C. "Platelet count has no impact on bleeding risk.” D. "Bleeding risk increases with a platelet count above 150,000/uL.”

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

"A platelet count below 100,000/uL is considered normal." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

A normal platelet count typically ranges between 150,000 and 450,000/uL.

A platelet count below 100,000/uL is not considered normal and may indicate thrombocytopenia or another underlying issue.

Choice B rationale:

"A platelet count below 50,000/uL can result in prolonged bleeding." Rationale: This statement is correct.

Platelets are essential for normal blood clotting, and a platelet count below 50,000/uL can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, especially after minor trauma.

Severe bleeding risk typically occurs when the platelet count drops below 20,000/uL.

Choice C rationale:

"Platelet count has no impact on bleeding risk." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

Platelet count directly affects bleeding risk.

A lower platelet count increases the risk of bleeding, while a higher count can lead to an increased risk of clot formation (thrombosis)

Choice D rationale:

"Bleeding risk increases with a platelet count above 150,000/uL." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

A platelet count above 150,000/uL is within the normal range and does not increase the risk of bleeding.

Instead, it may increase the risk of thrombosis (excessive clotting)

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A nurse is conducting a physical examination of a patient suspected of having thrombocytopenia. What assessment findings should the nurse prioritize to identify potential causes and types of thrombocytopenia?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a patient with thrombocytopenia.The patient presents with mucosal bleeding, including petechiae, purpura, and gingival bleeding.What should the nurse anticipate when assessing this patient's platelet count?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client with thrombocytopenia experiences prolonged bleeding even after minor trauma.What statement by the nurse accurately explains the relationship between platelet count and bleeding risk?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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A nurse is conducting a physical examination of a patient suspected of having thrombocytopenia.
What assessment findings should the nurse prioritize to identify potential causes and types of thrombocytopenia?