A client with breast cancer who received chemotherapy two weeks ago returns to the clinic for follow-up. Which priority follow-up assessment should the practical nurse (PN) anticipate for this client?

Choice A reason: Initiating contact isolation precautions is not necessary for psoriasis. Psoriasis is a non-infectious and non-contagious chronic skin condition, so isolating the client would not be appropriate. The main focus should be on managing the symptoms and providing the client with strategies to alleviate their discomfort and improve their quality of life.
Choice B reason: Explaining the need to keep the affected areas dry is not suitable for managing psoriasis. In fact, keeping the skin hydrated is crucial in managing psoriasis symptoms. Dry skin can exacerbate the condition, leading to increased flaking, itching, and discomfort. The practical nurse should educate the client on proper skin care, including using moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated and avoiding harsh soaps and hot water.
Choice C reason: Preparing the client for allergen testing is not relevant in the context of psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, not an allergic reaction, so allergen testing would not provide useful information for managing the condition. The focus should be on identifying and managing triggers that can exacerbate psoriasis, such as stress, infections, and certain medications.
Choice D reason: Reviewing stress reduction strategies with the client is the most appropriate action. Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups, and helping the client develop effective stress management techniques can significantly improve their symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and counseling can be beneficial in reducing stress and minimizing psoriasis symptoms. Educating the client on the importance of stress management and providing them with practical strategies can empower them to better manage their condition.

Choice A reason: Facial pallor, particularly around the lips, could indicate anemia or poor perfusion, but it is not the most urgent finding in this context. Polycythemia vera typically involves an overproduction of red blood cells, which can actually result in a ruddy complexion rather than pallor. While pallor should be monitored, it does not require immediate reporting compared to other potential complications of polycythemia vera.
Choice B reason: An increased heart rate over the last 4 hours could be a sign of various conditions, such as dehydration, fever, or cardiovascular stress. However, in the context of polycythemia vera, it is not as immediately concerning as symptoms that might indicate thrombotic complications, which are a common and serious risk for these patients. Tachycardia should be monitored, but it is not the most critical finding needing immediate attention.
Choice C reason: Dark brown stools could indicate the presence of digested blood, suggesting gastrointestinal bleeding. While this is an important finding that requires further investigation, it is not as immediately life-threatening as signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a client with polycythemia vera. Bleeding risks do exist with this condition, but the urgency of DVT symptoms demands prompt intervention to prevent further complications, such as a pulmonary embolism.
Choice D reason: Right lower leg redness and edema are classic signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Clients with polycythemia vera are at increased risk for thrombotic events due to the hyperviscosity of their blood. Reporting this finding immediately is critical, as DVT can lead to serious complications, including pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening. Early detection and intervention are essential in managing thrombotic risks in polycythemia vera patients.