A nurse is reviewing the complete blood count results for a child who is receiving treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the treatment is having a therapeutic effect?
The count of White Blood Cells is 20,000/mm
Hemoglobin level is at 5.5 g/dL
The count of Platelets is 150,000/mm
The count of Red Blood Cells is 3/mm
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is C.
Choice A reason: A White Blood Cell (WBC) count of 20,000/mm³ is significantly higher than the normal range for children, which is typically between 5,000 to 10,000/mm³. In the context of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a high WBC count could indicate an active disease process or a reaction to treatment, rather than a therapeutic effect.
Choice B reason: A hemoglobin level of 5.5 g/dL is quite low, as the normal range for children is generally between 11 to 16 g/dL. This level of hemoglobin suggests anemia, which is a common condition in patients with leukemia due to the disease itself or as a side effect of chemotherapy. It does not necessarily indicate that the treatment is having a therapeutic effect.
Choice C reason: A Platelet count of 150,000/mm³ is within the lower end of the normal range for children, which is approximately 150,000 to 450,000/mm³. This can be considered a sign that the treatment is working effectively, as it indicates bone marrow recovery and the production of platelets is returning to normal levels.
Choice D reason: A Red Blood Cell (RBC) count of 3/mm³ is extremely low. The normal range for children’s RBC count is about 4 million to 5.5 million/mm³. Such a low RBC count would indicate severe anemia and is not a sign of effective treatment for ALL.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid, can help reduce inflammation. However, it is not the first-line treatment for severe anaphylaxis.
Choice B rationale
Administering oxygen can help improve the child’s oxygenation, but it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation.
Choice C rationale
Administering a nebulized bronchodilator can help relieve wheezing, but it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation.
Choice D rationale
Administering epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. It works quickly to improve breathing, stimulate the heart, raise a dropping blood pressure, and reduce swelling of the face, lips, and throat.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Brisk capillary refill is a normal finding and does not require intervention.
Choice B rationale
Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is a common symptom of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants. It can indicate that the infant is having difficulty breathing and needs immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale
Rhinorrhea, or a runny nose, is a common symptom of RSV infection in infants. While it can be uncomfortable for the infant, it does not typically require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale
Coughing is a common symptom of RSV infection in infants. While it can be uncomfortable for the infant, it does not typically require immediate intervention.
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