A nurse is conducting a health history assessment for a client newly diagnosed with leukemia. Which risk factor should the nurse prioritize when asking about the client's medical history?

A) This choice is incorrect because while a complete blood count (CBC) is an important initial screening test for leukemia, it alone is not definitive for diagnosis. A CBC may show abnormal levels of blood cells, prompting further investigation, including a bone marrow biopsy.

B) This choice is incorrect because a urinalysis is not used to diagnose leukemia. It is a test used to evaluate kidney function and detect urinary abnormalities.

C) This choice is incorrect because a chest X-ray is not a definitive diagnostic tool for leukemia. It is primarily used to assess the lungs and chest organs for conditions such as pneumonia or tumors.

D) This choice is correct. A bone marrow biopsy is a definitive diagnostic tool to confirm leukemia. In this procedure, a small sample of bone marrow is taken from the hipbone or breastbone and examined under a microscope to determine if leukemia cells are present. It allows for the identification of abnormal cells in the bone marrow, helping to establish the diagnosis and type of leukemia.

A) This choice is incorrect because leukemia does not primarily affect the lymph nodes. It is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, where abnormal white blood cells are produced.

B) This choice is incorrect because leukemia is not characterized by the overproduction of platelets. Platelets are involved in blood clotting, and their overproduction is not a feature of leukemia.

C) This choice is correct. Leukemia is a type of cancer characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow. These abnormal cells then enter the bloodstream, crowding out healthy blood cells and impairing normal blood cell function.

D) This choice is incorrect because leukemia is not an autoimmune disorder. It is a cancerous condition involving abnormal white blood cell growth.