A nurse is providing education to a patient diagnosed with hemolytic anemia.
Which self-care instructions should the nurse include? (Select all that apply)
"Avoid exposure to infections.”
"Stay warm in cold temperatures.”
"Take over-the-counter pain medications as needed.”
"Limit your fluid intake to prevent dehydration.”
"Report any jaundice or dark urine to your healthcare provider.”
Correct Answer : A,B,E
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should instruct the patient to "Avoid exposure to infections" because patients with hemolytic anemia are at an increased risk of infection due to their compromised immune system.
Hemolytic anemia can result in the destruction of red blood cells, leading to a decreased ability to transport oxygen and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the patient to "Stay warm in cold temperatures" is essential because cold temperatures can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with hemolytic anemia.
Cold exposure can lead to vasoconstriction, which can worsen anemia-related symptoms by reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "Take over-the-counter pain medications as needed" is not a recommended self-care instruction for hemolytic anemia.
Pain medications will not address the underlying cause of the condition, and their use should be guided by a healthcare provider to avoid potential complications.
Choice D rationale:
"Limit your fluid intake to prevent dehydration" is not an appropriate self-care instruction for hemolytic anemia.
Dehydration can worsen the condition by increasing the concentration of red blood cells in the blood, potentially leading to further hemolysis.
Encouraging adequate hydration is generally important unless there are specific contraindications.
Choice E rationale:
Instructing the patient to "Report any jaundice or dark urine to your healthcare provider" is crucial because jaundice and dark urine are common signs of hemolysis in hemolytic anemia.
These symptoms indicate an increased breakdown of red blood cells and should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider for evaluation and management.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The statement, "My skin looks paler than usual," is a valid physical examination finding, but it is a general symptom of anemia and not specific to hemolytic anemia.
Other types of anemia can also cause pale skin.
Choice B rationale:
The statement, "I've been having chest pain occasionally," is important to assess, but it is not a specific physical examination finding related to hemolytic anemia.
Chest pain may have various causes, and additional information is needed to determine its significance.
Choice C rationale:
The statement, "I've noticed my urine is getting darker," is a specific physical examination finding that is highly relevant to hemolytic anemia.
Dark urine can result from the breakdown of red blood cells and the release of hemoglobin into the urine, a characteristic feature of hemolytic anemia.
Choice D rationale:
The statement, "I've been experiencing abdominal pain," is important to assess, but it is not a specific physical examination finding related to hemolytic anemia.
Abdominal pain can have various causes, and further evaluation is needed to determine its association with the patient's condition.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should instruct the patient to "Avoid exposure to infections" because patients with hemolytic anemia are at an increased risk of infection due to their compromised immune system.
Hemolytic anemia can result in the destruction of red blood cells, leading to a decreased ability to transport oxygen and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the patient to "Stay warm in cold temperatures" is essential because cold temperatures can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with hemolytic anemia.
Cold exposure can lead to vasoconstriction, which can worsen anemia-related symptoms by reducing blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "Take over-the-counter pain medications as needed" is not a recommended self-care instruction for hemolytic anemia.
Pain medications will not address the underlying cause of the condition, and their use should be guided by a healthcare provider to avoid potential complications.
Choice D rationale:
"Limit your fluid intake to prevent dehydration" is not an appropriate self-care instruction for hemolytic anemia.
Dehydration can worsen the condition by increasing the concentration of red blood cells in the blood, potentially leading to further hemolysis.
Encouraging adequate hydration is generally important unless there are specific contraindications.
Choice E rationale:
Instructing the patient to "Report any jaundice or dark urine to your healthcare provider" is crucial because jaundice and dark urine are common signs of hemolysis in hemolytic anemia.
These symptoms indicate an increased breakdown of red blood cells and should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider for evaluation and management.
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