A nurse is developing a care plan for a patient who has been diagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Which of the following symptoms is most important for the nurse to monitor?
Elevated WBC count.
Fever.
Ecchymosis.
Fatigue.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While an elevated WBC count can indicate an infection, it is not the most important symptom to monitor in a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). ITP is primarily a platelet disorder, and while infection can trigger or exacerbate the condition, an elevated WBC count is not a direct symptom of ITP78.
Choice B rationale
Fever can be a sign of infection, which can trigger or exacerbate ITP. However, it is not the most important symptom to monitor in a patient with ITP78.
Choice C rationale
Ecchymosis, or bruising, is a key symptom of ITP. Because ITP involves a decrease in platelets, which are necessary for clotting, patients with this condition are prone to bruising and bleeding. Therefore, monitoring for ecchymosis is crucial.
Choice D rationale
Fatigue can be a symptom of ITP, but it is not the most important symptom to monitor. While fatigue can impact a patient’s quality of life, it does not directly indicate the severity of the condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tremors are a common side effect of terbutaline. Terbutaline is a medication used to inhibit uterine contractions in preterm labor. It is a beta-adrenergic agonist, and stimulation of the beta-adrenergic receptors can lead to side effects such as tremors.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Having the patient void is not the immediate priority. While it is important to ensure the bladder is not distended, which could interfere with labor progress, the vital signs suggest a more urgent concern.
Choice B rationale
Asking the patient if she needs pain medication is important for comfort measures during labor, but it is not the immediate priority. The nurse’s first responsibility is to ensure the safety of the mother and baby.
Choice C rationale
Turning the patient on her side and rechecking the blood pressure is the correct action. The maternal blood pressure is low, which could indicate supine hypotensive syndrome. This occurs when the gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava when the woman is supine, reducing venous return to the heart. Turning the woman on her side may relieve this pressure and improve blood pressure.
Choice D rationale
Notifying the healthcare provider of the findings is important, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse should first address the mother’s hypotension by turning her on her side.
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.