The patient is admitted with upper GI bleeding following an episode of forceful vomiting due to excessive alcohol intake. The nurse suspects a Mallory-Weiss tear. Which of the following is true of a Mallory-Weiss tear?

A. Gum bleeding can be a sign of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and is concerning because it indicates a potential for bleeding complications. However, while it's significant, it might not be the most urgent symptom in the context of HIT compared to symptoms indicating acute thrombosis.

B. A hemoglobin level of 14 g/dL is generally within the normal range for most adults. In the context of HIT, this level does not indicate any immediate abnormality or severe issue related to anemia or bleeding, making it less concerning compared to other symptoms that might indicate acute complications.
C. Tachycardia (increased heart rate) and shortness of breath are concerning symptoms in the context of HIT. These symptoms can be indicative of a thrombotic event such as a pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which are serious complications of HIT. The presence of these symptoms requires urgent evaluation as they suggest possible life-threatening complications.
D. Petechiae are small, pinpoint red or purple spots that appear due to bleeding under the skin, often associated with low platelet counts. While petechiae are a concerning sign and indicate bleeding issues, the presence of tachycardia and shortness of breath generally represents a more immediate threat to the patient's life due to potential thromboembolic events.

A. Chemotherapy often requires multiple infusions over a long period, and a CVAD provides a reliable and convenient access point for these treatments. It allows for the continuous or intermittent administration of chemotherapy drugs, which are often irritating to veins and require precise dosing.
B. While CVADs are used for administering chemotherapy and other treatments, they are not typically used to implant radioactive material for internal radiation (brachytherapy).
C. While CVADs reduce the need for repeated venipunctures and can help manage the complications of frequent injections, they do not eliminate the risk of infection. CVADs can themselves become a source of infection if not properly maintained, as they are open to the external environment.
D. The placement of a CVAD does not directly affect the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea and vomiting. The CVAD’s role is primarily related to the administration of medications and access to blood vessels.