A client with polycythemia is receiving treatment.
Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding the pathophysiology of this condition?

Choice A rationale:

Administer ruxolitinib to reduce spleen size.

Rationale: This option is not a priority in the care plan for a client with secondary polycythemia.

Secondary polycythemia is typically associated with an underlying condition, such as chronic hypoxia.

The primary focus should be on addressing the underlying cause and managing polycythemia-related complications.

Choice B rationale:

Monitor electrolyte levels and renal function.

Rationale: This is the correct priority in the care plan for a client with secondary polycythemia.

Secondary polycythemia can result from conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or renal disease, which may affect electrolyte balance and renal function.

Monitoring these parameters is essential to assess the patient's overall health and manage the underlying condition.

Choice C rationale:

Administer radioactive phosphorus.

Rationale: Administering radioactive phosphorus is not a standard treatment for secondary polycythemia.

Treatment for secondary polycythemia focuses on managing the underlying condition and its complications.

Choice D rationale:

Perform phlebotomy to reduce hematocrit.

Rationale: Phlebotomy may be considered in some cases of secondary polycythemia, but it is not the primary priority.

The primary focus should be on addressing the underlying cause, such as treating COPD or renal disease, to manage polycythemia effectively.

Choice A rationale:

Fatigue is a common clinical manifestation of polycythemia because the increased number of red blood cells can make the blood thicker, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, resulting in fatigue.

Choice B rationale:

Thrombosis is a complication of polycythemia vera.

The increased number of blood cells can lead to increased viscosity, making the blood more prone to clot formation.

Choice C rationale:

Bradycardia is not typically associated with polycythemia.

In fact, individuals with polycythemia may have an increased heart rate (tachycardia) due to the increased workload on the heart caused by the thicker blood.

Choice D rationale:

Hypoxia can occur in polycythemia due to the decreased ability of thickened blood to carry oxygen, but it is not a direct clinical manifestation of the condition.

Choice E rationale:

Hypotension is not commonly associated with polycythemia.

In fact, hypertension (high blood pressure) is more commonly seen as a result of increased blood viscosity and resistance to blood flow.