Which patient information is most important for the nurse to monitor when evaluating the effectiveness of deferoxamine (Desferal) for a patient with hemochromatosis?

A. Clotting is not directly related to the destruction of red blood cells.
B. Cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration of the skin due to poor circulation or inadequate oxygenation, which is not directly indicative of red blood cell destruction.
C. Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by the buildup of bilirubin, a byproduct of the destruction of red blood cells, which is a common symptom of hemolytic anemia.
D. Bleeding is not a symptom associated with the destruction of red blood cells but rather a lack of clotting factors or platelets.

A. Creation of a "sterile" environment with laminar airflow rooms is not practical or necessary for preventing transmission of pathogens to patients with depressed bone marrow function. It may also not be feasible in many healthcare settings.
B. Placement of patients in private rooms with HEPA filtration may help reduce airborne pathogens but is not the most important measure for preventing transmission of harmful pathogens to patients with depressed bone marrow function.
C. Strict and frequent handwashing by all people having contact with the patient is the most important measure for preventing transmission of harmful pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, to immunocompromised patients. Hand hygiene is a fundamental infection control measure that significantly reduces the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
D. Administration of prophylactic antibiotics may be part of the treatment plan for some patients with depressed bone marrow function to prevent bacterial infections, but it is not the most important measure for preventing transmission of harmful pathogens. Hand hygiene is more effective in reducing the transmission of a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.