A client with thrombocytopenia experiences prolonged bleeding even after minor trauma.
What statement by the nurse accurately explains the relationship between platelet count and bleeding risk?
"A platelet count below 100,000/uL is considered normal.”
"A platelet count below 50,000/uL can result in prolonged bleeding.”
"Platelet count has no impact on bleeding risk.”
"Bleeding risk increases with a platelet count above 150,000/uL.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
"A platelet count below 100,000/uL is considered normal." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.
A normal platelet count typically ranges between 150,000 and 450,000/uL.
A platelet count below 100,000/uL is not considered normal and may indicate thrombocytopenia or another underlying issue.
Choice B rationale:
"A platelet count below 50,000/uL can result in prolonged bleeding." Rationale: This statement is correct.
Platelets are essential for normal blood clotting, and a platelet count below 50,000/uL can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, especially after minor trauma.
Severe bleeding risk typically occurs when the platelet count drops below 20,000/uL.
Choice C rationale:
"Platelet count has no impact on bleeding risk." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.
Platelet count directly affects bleeding risk.
A lower platelet count increases the risk of bleeding, while a higher count can lead to an increased risk of clot formation (thrombosis)
Choice D rationale:
"Bleeding risk increases with a platelet count above 150,000/uL." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.
A platelet count above 150,000/uL is within the normal range and does not increase the risk of bleeding.
Instead, it may increase the risk of thrombosis (excessive clotting)
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administer platelet transfusions for life-threatening hemorrhage.
Platelet transfusions are typically administered in cases of severe thrombocytopenia where the risk of life-threatening hemorrhage is high.
However, it is not appropriate to administer platelet transfusions routinely or without a specific indication.
Therefore, this choice is not applicable in all cases of thrombocytopenia.
Choice B rationale:
Discontinue heparin immediately if signs of thrombosis are present.
In patients with thrombocytopenia, the use of heparin can increase the risk of bleeding.
If signs of thrombosis (clot formation) occur while a patient is on heparin, it is crucial to discontinue the medication promptly to prevent further clot formation.
This is a necessary intervention in such cases.
Choice C rationale:
Teach the patient to avoid NSAIDs, aspirin, and alcohol.
Patients with thrombocytopenia have a reduced number of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting.
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), aspirin, and alcohol can further increase the risk of bleeding by interfering with platelet function or causing irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.
Therefore, it is essential to educate patients to avoid these substances to minimize bleeding risks.
Choice D rationale:
Administer corticosteroids, IVIG, anti-D antibody, or rituximab as prescribed.
These treatments may be prescribed in specific cases of thrombocytopenia, depending on the underlying cause.
Corticosteroids can help reduce immune-mediated destruction of platelets, IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) can boost platelet levels, anti-D antibody is used in Rh-positive individuals with Rh-negative platelets, and rituximab may be prescribed for certain autoimmune causes of thrombocytopenia.
The administration of these medications is based on the patient's specific diagnosis and medical orders.
Choice E rationale:
Monitor the patient's response to treatment by checking the skin color and temperature.
While monitoring the patient's response to treatment is essential, checking skin color and temperature alone may not provide comprehensive information about thrombocytopenia management.
Monitoring platelet counts, signs of bleeding, and other relevant laboratory parameters would be more specific and valuable in assessing the effectiveness of treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"A platelet count below 100,000/uL is considered normal." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.
A normal platelet count typically ranges between 150,000 and 450,000/uL.
A platelet count below 100,000/uL is not considered normal and may indicate thrombocytopenia or another underlying issue.
Choice B rationale:
"A platelet count below 50,000/uL can result in prolonged bleeding." Rationale: This statement is correct.
Platelets are essential for normal blood clotting, and a platelet count below 50,000/uL can lead to an increased risk of bleeding, especially after minor trauma.
Severe bleeding risk typically occurs when the platelet count drops below 20,000/uL.
Choice C rationale:
"Platelet count has no impact on bleeding risk." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.
Platelet count directly affects bleeding risk.
A lower platelet count increases the risk of bleeding, while a higher count can lead to an increased risk of clot formation (thrombosis)
Choice D rationale:
"Bleeding risk increases with a platelet count above 150,000/uL." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.
A platelet count above 150,000/uL is within the normal range and does not increase the risk of bleeding.
Instead, it may increase the risk of thrombosis (excessive clotting)
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.