A nurse is monitoring an older adult client who has an exacerbation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
The nurse notes petechiae on the client's skin.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Implement airborne precautions.
Determine the client's blood type.
Institute bleeding precautions.
Avoid administering IV pain medication.
The Correct Answer is C
The nurse should institute bleeding precautions for the client.
Petechiae are small red or purple spots on the skin caused by broken capillaries, which can be a sign of low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and an increased risk of bleeding.
Bleeding precautions include measures such as using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding injections, and avoiding activities that could result in injury.
Choice A is incorrect because airborne precautions are used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases that are transmitted through the air, and are not necessary in this situation.
Choice B is incorrect because determining the client’s blood type is not necessary in this situation.
Choice D is incorrect because avoiding IV pain medication is not necessary in this situation; however, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding and bruising.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Platelets 70,000/mm.
The priority finding for a nurse assessing a client who has cirrhosis to report is a platelet count of 70,000/mm.
A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can be a complication of cirrhosis and can increase the risk of bleeding.
A platelet count below 150,000/mm3 is considered low and should be reported to the provider.
Choice A is incorrect because while a distended abdomen can be a sign of ascites, a complication of cirrhosis, it is not the priority finding to report.
Choice B is incorrect because while clay-colored stools can be a sign of biliary obstruction, it is not the priority finding to report.
Choice D is incorrect because while an elevated alkaline phosphatase level can be a sign of liver damage, it is not the priority finding to report.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A change in behavior such as agitation and restlessness in a client with a traumatic brain injury can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure.
The nurse should first assess the client’s blood pressure as an increase in blood pressure can be an indicator of increased intracranial pressure.
Motor responses are not the first assessment that should be performed.
Blood glucose is not the first assessment that should be performed.
Urinary output is not the first assessment that should be performed.
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