Neutropenia increases the patient’s risk for life-threatening infection and sepsis.
True
False
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: True
Neutropenia, characterized by a low count of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell), significantly increases a patient’s risk for life-threatening infections and sepsis. Neutrophils play a crucial role in the immune system by fighting off infections. When their levels are low, the body becomes more susceptible to infections, which can quickly escalate to sepsis if not promptly treated. Neutropenic sepsis is a severe and potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy are particularly at risk due to their compromised immune systems.
Choice B: False
The statement that neutropenia does not increase the risk for life-threatening infection and sepsis is incorrect. Neutropenia is well-documented as a major risk factor for severe infections and sepsis. Without adequate neutrophils, the body’s ability to combat pathogens is severely impaired, leading to a higher likelihood of infections that can become systemic and life-threatening. Therefore, it is critical to monitor and manage neutropenic patients closely to prevent and treat infections promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Collect patient information
This is the first step in the nursing process, known as the assessment phase. During this phase, the nurse gathers comprehensive information about the patient’s health status, including medical history, physical examination findings, and any relevant diagnostic test results. This information forms the foundation for identifying the patient’s health needs and planning appropriate care.
Choice B: Identify any clinical problems
The second step is the diagnosis phase, where the nurse analyzes the collected data to identify the patient’s health problems. These problems can be actual or potential issues that require nursing intervention. Accurate identification of clinical problems is crucial for developing an effective care plan.
Choice C: Decide a plan of action
The third step is the planning phase. In this phase, the nurse sets measurable and achievable goals for the patient’s care and decides on the appropriate nursing interventions to address the identified clinical problems. The plan of action should be individualized to meet the specific needs of the patient.
Choice D: Carry out the plan
The fourth step is the implementation phase, where the nurse executes the planned interventions. This may involve administering medications, providing education, performing procedures, or coordinating with other healthcare professionals. The goal is to achieve the desired patient outcomes as outlined in the care plan.
Choice E: Determine whether the plan was effective
The final step is the evaluation phase. In this phase, the nurse assesses the patient’s response to the implemented interventions and determines whether the goals of the care plan have been met. If the desired outcomes are not achieved, the nurse may need to revise the care plan and repeat the process.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A: Collect patient information
The first step in the nursing process is to collect patient information, also known as the assessment phase. During this phase, the nurse gathers comprehensive data about the patient’s health status, including medical history, physical examination findings, and any relevant diagnostic test results. This information forms the foundation for identifying the patient’s needs and planning appropriate care.
Choice B: Identify any clinical problems
After collecting patient information, the next step is to identify any clinical problems, also known as the diagnosis phase. In this phase, the nurse analyzes the assessment data to determine the patient’s health issues or potential risks. This step involves critical thinking and clinical judgment to prioritize the patient’s problems and develop a nursing diagnosis.
Choice C: Decide a plan of action
The third step is to decide a plan of action, also known as the planning phase. During this phase, the nurse sets measurable and achievable goals for the patient’s care based on the identified clinical problems. The nurse also develops specific interventions to address these problems and achieve the desired outcomes. This plan serves as a guide for the subsequent implementation phase.
Choice D: Carry out the plan
The fourth step is to carry out the plan, also known as the implementation phase. In this phase, the nurse executes the planned interventions to address the patient’s clinical problems. This may involve administering medications, providing treatments, educating the patient and family, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. The nurse continuously monitors the patient’s response to the interventions and makes adjustments as needed.
Choice E: Determine whether the plan was effective
The final step is to determine whether the plan was effective, also known as the evaluation phase. During this phase, the nurse assesses the patient’s progress toward the established goals and evaluates the effectiveness of the interventions. If the desired outcomes are not achieved, the nurse may need to revise the plan and implement new strategies. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the patient’s care is continuously improved and optimized.