The nurse is caring for a patient with a platelet count of <20,000/mm3 (150,000-400000). Which of the following precautions should the nurse take in providing care for this patient?
Report fever to MD ASAP
Use soft toothbrush with oral care
Drink hot liquids TID
Recommend Straight edge razor for shaving
The Correct Answer is B
A. Report fever to MD ASAP: While fever in any immunocompromised patient should be reported, it does not directly address precautions related to low platelet counts and bleeding risks.
B. Use a soft toothbrush with oral care: With a low platelet count, the patient is at risk for bleeding. Using a soft toothbrush minimizes the risk of gum injury and bleeding, a critical safety measure for thrombocytopenic patients.
C. Drink hot liquids TID: Hot liquids are not recommended as they may cause mouth or esophageal burns, increasing bleeding risk if the mucosa is damaged. Tepid or cold fluids are safer.
D. Recommend straight edge razor for shaving: Patients with low platelets should use an electric razor to avoid cuts, as any bleeding is harder to control in thrombocytopenic individuals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Explain the procedure to the patient’s family: While helpful, this is not as crucial as ensuring patient comfort and pain management during the procedure itself.
B. Observe the patient for bleeding: Observing for bleeding is important post-procedure rather than beforehand.
C. Drape the biopsy site: Draping is part of the procedure setup, but pain management is more critical for patient preparation.
D. Administer an analgesic to the patient: Administering an analgesic is essential to manage pain and discomfort during a bone marrow biopsy. This ensures the patient is as comfortable as possible.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. WBCs: White blood cell counts may vary in multiple myeloma, but they are not typically increased; in fact, WBC counts can be low due to bone marrow crowding.
B. Calcium: Multiple myeloma often causes hypercalcemia because of increased bone breakdown, leading to the release of calcium into the bloodstream.
C. Absolute neutrophil count: The absolute neutrophil count may actually decrease as a result of bone marrow dysfunction, not increase.
D. Platelets: Platelet counts are often decreased in multiple myeloma due to bone marrow involvement, not increased.
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