A nurse is educating a patient with primary polycythemia on potential complications.
Which statement by the nurse is accurate regarding the risks associated with this condition?
"You are at risk of bleeding due to decreased platelet production.”
"The increased red blood cell mass reduces the risk of thrombosis.”
"This condition does not affect white blood cell production.”
"The increased blood viscosity can lead to organ damage and ischemia.”
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
While primary polycythemia can cause an increase in red blood cell mass, it does not typically lead to decreased platelet production.
Platelet production is not directly affected by primary polycythemia.
Choice B rationale:
Primary polycythemia does increase red blood cell mass, but it also increases the risk of thrombosis (clot formation) due to the increased viscosity of the blood.
This statement is inaccurate.
Choice C rationale:
Primary polycythemia can affect white blood cell production, leading to an increase in white blood cells (leukocytosis)
This statement is inaccurate as well.
Choice D rationale:
The increased red blood cell mass in primary polycythemia does lead to increased blood viscosity.
The thicker blood can impede blood flow, leading to organ damage and ischemia (lack of blood supply to tissues)
This is an accurate statement regarding the risks associated with primary polycythemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A renal ultrasound is not commonly used to rule out secondary polycythemia.
Polycythemia is primarily related to an increase in red blood cell production, and renal ultrasound is used to assess kidney function and anatomy, which is not directly related to the cause of polycythemia.
Choice B rationale:
A bone marrow biopsy is commonly used to rule out secondary polycythemia.
Polycythemia can be primary (due to a problem within the bone marrow itself) or secondary (due to external factors like hypoxia or tumors)
A bone marrow biopsy can help differentiate between primary and secondary causes by examining the bone marrow's production of red blood cells.
Choice C rationale:
A chest x-ray may be ordered to evaluate the lungs and chest, but it is not the primary diagnostic test used to rule out secondary polycythemia.
It may help identify lung conditions that contribute to hypoxia, which can lead to secondary polycythemia, but it does not directly assess the bone marrow or red blood cell production.
Choice D rationale:
Thyroid function tests are not typically used to rule out secondary polycythemia.
Thyroid function tests assess the thyroid gland's hormone production and are unrelated to the primary causes of polycythemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Drinking an adequate amount of fluids is essential for patients with polycythemia to prevent blood clots and maintain blood flow.
This statement indicates a good understanding of self-care.
Choice B rationale:
Avoiding hot baths and showers is essential because heat can cause vasodilation and further increase blood flow, potentially exacerbating symptoms of polycythemia.
This statement also shows appropriate self-care knowledge.
Choice C rationale:
Smoking is a significant risk factor for polycythemia and other cardiovascular conditions.
Continuing to smoke, even with the intention to cut down, is not advisable and indicates a need for further education.
Smoking cessation is essential for managing polycythemia effectively.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring vital signs regularly is crucial for patients with polycythemia to detect any changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or oxygen saturation.
This statement demonstrates an understanding of the importance of self-monitoring and is not a cause for further education.
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