The nurse analyzes the laboratory values of a pediatric client with leukemia who is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse notes the following lab values: platelets 19,500/mcl (nl. 140,000-400,000/mcL), hemoglobin 11 g/dL (nl. 12-16 g/dL), white blood cell count 9,800/mcl (nl. 5,000-10,000/mcL). Based on these findings, which intervention should the nurse prioritize in the plan of care?
Monitoring closely for signs of infection.
Transfusing packed red blood cells.
Administering intravenous immunoglobulins.
Initiating bleeding precautions.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Monitoring for infection is important, but the white blood cell count is within normal limits, so it is not the immediate priority.
B. Although the hemoglobin is slightly low, it is not critically low, so transfusion of packed red blood cells is not immediately necessary.
C. Intravenous immunoglobulins are not indicated based on the current lab values.
D. The platelet count is critically low, placing the client at high risk for bleeding. Initiating bleeding precautions is the priority to prevent hemorrhage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increasing fiber intake is beneficial for overall digestive health and can prevent constipation, which may help in reducing the risk of UTIs.
B. Wiping from front to back is crucial in preventing the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the urinary tract, reducing the risk of recurrent UTIs.
C. Follow-up with a specialist may be necessary if the child has recurrent UTIs, to rule out underlying issues such as vesicoureteral reflux.
D. No additional testing after antibiotics might be needed for a simple UTI, but in cases of recurrent UTIs, further testing is often required to ensure the infection has resolved and to investigate any underlying causes.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A child recovering from nasopharyngitis could still be contagious, and since children with leukemia have compromised immune systems, they are at higher risk of infections.
B. A child with nephrotic syndrome, although potentially needing special care, does not pose the same infection risk as a child recovering from an infectious disease. Therefore, they are a more suitable roommate for a child with leukemia.
C. A child with gastroenteritis may still be infectious and could expose the child with leukemia to gastrointestinal pathogens.
D. A child with rheumatic fever does not have a contagious illness, but the specific needs of the child with leukemia and the potential for complications from infections make it less ideal compared to a non-infectious condition like nephrotic syndrome.
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