(Select all that apply):
A nurse is assessing a patient with polycythemia.
Which clinical manifestations are commonly associated with this condition? Select all that apply.
Fatigue.
Thrombosis.
Bradycardia.
Hypoxia.
Hypotension.
Correct Answer : A,B
Choice A rationale:
Fatigue is a common clinical manifestation of polycythemia because the increased number of red blood cells can make the blood thicker, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, resulting in fatigue.
Choice B rationale:
Thrombosis is a complication of polycythemia vera.
The increased number of blood cells can lead to increased viscosity, making the blood more prone to clot formation.
Choice C rationale:
Bradycardia is not typically associated with polycythemia.
In fact, individuals with polycythemia may have an increased heart rate (tachycardia) due to the increased workload on the heart caused by the thicker blood.
Choice D rationale:
Hypoxia can occur in polycythemia due to the decreased ability of thickened blood to carry oxygen, but it is not a direct clinical manifestation of the condition.
Choice E rationale:
Hypotension is not commonly associated with polycythemia.
In fact, hypertension (high blood pressure) is more commonly seen as a result of increased blood viscosity and resistance to blood flow.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Frequent headaches can be a symptom of polycythemia due to increased blood viscosity, but it is not as specific as the reddish skin color (plethora) seen in polycythemia.
This statement is relevant but less specific.
Choice B rationale:
Dizziness and lightheadedness can occur in polycythemia, especially when there is impaired blood flow due to increased viscosity.
However, these symptoms are not as specific as the reddish skin color (plethora) seen in polycythemia.
This statement is relevant but less specific.
Choice C rationale:
A common clinical manifestation of polycythemia is the development of reddish or purplish skin (plethora) due to the increased red blood cell mass.
This statement is accurate and specific to the condition.
Choice D rationale:
Increased urination is not typically associated with polycythemia.
This statement is not directly related to the condition and is less relevant.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"I've been feeling fatigued and weak lately." Rationale: Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of polycythemia due to the increased viscosity of the blood resulting from elevated red blood cell counts, making it more difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently.
Choice B rationale:
"I've had some itching on my skin." Rationale: Itching, particularly after exposure to warm water or a hot shower, is a classic symptom of polycythemia vera (primary polycythemia)
This itching is known as pruritus, and it occurs due to the release of histamines and other substances from white blood cells.
Choice C rationale:
"I've been experiencing chest pain." Rationale: While chest pain can be associated with polycythemia in severe cases due to an increased risk of thrombosis and ischemia, it is not as specific of a symptom as itching in the context of polycythemia.
Choice D rationale:
"I've been coughing up blood." Rationale: Coughing up blood is not a typical symptom of polycythemia.
It may be associated with other conditions or complications, but it is not a direct indication of polycythemia.
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