A nurse is planning to discharge a client who has quadriplegia to his home. The nurse suggests that the family might need respite care services. When a family member asks how respite care can help, which of the following responses should the nurse provide?

A. This value indicates leukopenia, which is a low white blood cell count. It is a common side effect of chemotherapy, as it can suppress bone marrow function and increase the risk of infection. A WBC count below 4000/mm³ is concerning and should be reported to the provider for potential intervention, such as monitoring for infection or adjusting chemotherapy.
B. A hemoglobin level of 12 g/dL is generally within the normal range for adult females (typically 12-16 g/dL). While chemotherapy can cause anemia, this specific level does not indicate a need for immediate reporting unless there are additional symptoms or changes.
C. An RBC count of 5 million/mm³ is also within the normal range for adult females (typically 4.2-5.4 million/mm³). This value does not warrant concern or reporting to the provider.
D. A platelet count of 155,000/mm³ is considered to be on the lower end of the normal range (typically 150,000-450,000/mm³). While it is not critically low, it may indicate the onset of thrombocytopenia, which can occur with chemotherapy. It should be monitored, but this specific value may not need immediate reporting unless there are additional clinical signs or significant drops in platelet counts.

A. While maintaining oral hygiene is important, excessive flossing, especially in a client receiving chemotherapy, may increase the risk of gum bleeding due to potential thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Instead, gentle oral care is recommended to prevent irritation and bleeding.
B. Chemotherapy can cause nausea and vomiting, and administering an antiemetic before treatment can help prevent these side effects. It is a standard practice to improve the client's comfort and adherence to treatment.
C. This action may not be advisable, particularly if the mouthwash contains alcohol or strong antiseptics, which can irritate mucous membranes, especially in clients undergoing chemotherapy. Instead, using a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash or a saline solution may be more appropriate for maintaining oral hygiene without causing irritation.
D. This statement is not typically accurate for all chemotherapy regimens. While some medications (like iron supplements) can cause dark stools, chemotherapy can lead to various gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea or constipation, rather than specifically dark stools.