Which initial assessment findings would the nurse expect in a client diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia ALL? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
Ascites
Alopecia
Generalized edema
Petechiae
Epistaxis
Correct Answer : D,E
A) Ascites
Ascites, the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, is not a typical initial assessment finding in acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). While ascites can occur in some cancers or in cases of liver failure, it is not a hallmark or common finding in ALL. The focus in ALL would generally be on hematologic and immunologic symptoms rather than fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
B) Alopecia
Alopecia (hair loss) is more commonly associated with chemotherapy treatment for leukemia rather than the leukemia itself. While chemotherapy for ALL can lead to hair loss, it is not typically an initial symptom of the disease itself. Alopecia may appear later, as a side effect of cancer treatment.
C) Generalized edema
Generalized edema (swelling) is not a common or early sign of acute lymphocytic leukemia. While edema can occur in certain malignancies or complications (like in cases of renal failure or heart failure), it is not typically an initial presenting symptom of ALL. The key manifestations of ALL tend to relate to hematologic abnormalities, rather than fluid accumulation.
D) Petechiae
Petechiae (small, red or purple spots on the skin) are a common finding in ALL. They occur due to thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), which is a hallmark of leukemia. Thrombocytopenia impairs the blood’s ability to clot, leading to bleeding under the skin. Petechiae is often one of the first visible signs of blood dyscrasia in leukemia patients.
E) Epistaxis
Epistaxis (nosebleeds) is another common initial finding in ALL. Like petechiae, epistaxis occurs due to thrombocytopenia, which impairs normal clotting and leads to spontaneous bleeding. Nosebleeds are frequently observed in patients with low platelet counts, especially in leukemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) IM epinephrine is the fastest route of administration:
While epinephrine is often administered intramuscularly in cases of anaphylaxis and allergic reactions, the speed of action is not the primary reason for choosing this route over intravenous (IV) administration in this situation. Intramuscular administration of epinephrine allows for a rapid onset of action, but it is not necessarily the fastest route compared to IV. IV administration would act more quickly in an emergency setting where immediate blood circulation is critical, but IM is preferred in allergic reactions to prevent excessive systemic effects and to avoid rapid peaks in plasma levels.
B) IV epinephrine is only administered during cardiac arrest:
Epinephrine is generally administered intravenously during life-threatening situations such as cardiac arrest or severe shock, where immediate circulatory effects are needed. In cases of anaphylaxis, however, intramuscular (IM) administration of epinephrine is the preferred route because it allows for a more controlled absorption rate and reduces the risk of excessive blood pressure and other adverse cardiovascular effects. This is the correct rationale for why epinephrine is administered IM in the context of an allergic reaction.
C) Epinephrine would not be administered in this situation:
Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions and anaphylaxis, especially in cases where symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, urticaria, and itching are present. Therefore, withholding epinephrine is not an appropriate response in this situation. Immediate intervention with epinephrine is critical to reverse the symptoms of anaphylaxis and prevent further respiratory distress or cardiovascular collapse.
D) IM epinephrine is less concentrated than IV:
The concentration of epinephrine used for IM and IV administration is the same. The primary reason for choosing the IM route over the IV route is the slower absorption and the fact that it minimizes the risk of a rapid increase in systemic blood pressure and other adverse reactions. While IM epinephrine may be absorbed more slowly than IV, its concentration is appropriate for treating anaphylaxis effectively. The choice of IM is based on safety and controlled response, not on the concentration of the drug.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Ensure bed alarm is on when leaving patient's room:
The cerebellum plays a critical role in coordinating movement, balance, and motor control. An injury to this area can lead to impaired coordination and dysfunction in balance, making it difficult for the patient to perform the Romberg test (which evaluates balance and proprioception). Given that the patient cannot complete the Romberg test, this suggests the risk of falling or injuring themselves due to impaired balance and coordination. The priority nursing intervention is to ensure safety by using a bed alarm to alert staff if the patient attempts to get out of bed, thereby preventing falls.
B) Vary schedule to prevent memorization and boredom:
While changing the patient's routine may help with engagement, it is not the priority intervention for a patient with cerebellar injury. The primary concern in this situation is safety due to the patient's impaired balance. Addressing issues related to cognitive function or boredom may be important but comes after ensuring the patient’s physical safety.
C) Clarify misinformation and reorient when confused:
Reorientation may be necessary if the patient is confused or disoriented, but this is not the primary concern related to cerebellar injury. The patient’s balance and motor coordination are the most pressing issues. While mental clarity is important, preventing falls due to impaired motor control is the immediate priority.
D) Deep breathing and incentive spirometer education:
Deep breathing exercises and using an incentive spirometer are essential to prevent respiratory complications, particularly after surgery or immobility. However, in this case, the priority concern is the patient's safety related to impaired balance from the cerebellar injury. Respiratory interventions are important but should be addressed after ensuring that the patient is safe from falls and other immediate physical risks.
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