A client asks the nurse, "What is leukemia?" How should the nurse respond?

A) This choice is incorrect because mild redness and tenderness at the IV site are common findings and may indicate a local inflammatory response to the IV infusion.

B) This choice is incorrect because a temperature of 99.8°F (37.7°C) is slightly elevated but not a critical finding. The client's healthcare provider should be notified if the temperature is significantly elevated or if other symptoms are present.

C) This choice is incorrect because a small amount of blood in the IV tubing may be due to a minor infiltration or a common occurrence during IV administration. However, the nurse should monitor the IV site and flow rate closely.

D) This choice is correct. Crackles and decreased breath sounds on auscultation may indicate fluid overload or pulmonary edema, which could be a severe complication of IV chemotherapy. The healthcare provider should be notified immediately to assess the client's respiratory status and provide appropriate intervention.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because impaired bone density would not directly cause ecchymoses on the skin. It might lead to an increased risk of fractures, but not bruising.

B) This choice is correct. Ecchymoses (bruises) of varying sizes with minimal trauma are common in leukemia due to a deficiency of platelets and impaired clotting factors in the blood. Leukemia can lead to decreased platelet production and clotting abnormalities, resulting in easy bleeding and bruising.

C) This choice is incorrect because increased production of platelets would improve clotting abilities and reduce the risk of ecchymoses.

D) This choice is incorrect because elevated levels of red blood cells would not directly cause ecchymoses on the skin. It may lead to other symptoms like increased blood viscosity.