The nurse is caring for a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) whose platelet count is 10,000/mm³. What assessment finding will the nurse report to the provider immediately?

The patient has scattered petechiae on bilateral lower extremities.

The patient has ecchymosis around their intravenous site.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Scattered petechiae on bilateral lower extremities are a common finding in patients with thrombocytopenia, indicating low platelet count and increased risk of bleeding. While this finding is concerning, it is not as immediate a threat as significant bleeding or bruising.

Choice B reason: Ecchymosis around the intravenous site suggests significant bleeding and bruising, which can be more urgent and requires immediate reporting. A platelet count of 10,000/mm³ is critically low, increasing the risk of spontaneous bleeding and haemorrhage. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent further complications.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Foot ulcers and delayed wound healing are related to diabetes but are considered macrovascular complications. Microvascular complications specifically refer to damage to small blood vessels.

Choice B reason: Stroke prevention and cardiac health are important but are related to macrovascular complications of diabetes. The focus here is on microvascular complications.

Choice C reason: Retinopathy and nephropathy are microvascular complications of diabetes. These conditions result from damage to small blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys, respectively. Diabetic retinopathy can lead to vision loss, while diabetic nephropathy can lead to kidney failure. It is important to monitor for these complications and manage blood glucose levels to prevent or slow their progression.

Choice D reason: Hypertension management and cholesterol control are important for overall cardiovascular health but are related to macrovascular complications. The discussion should focus on microvascular complications specific to diabetes.

A. Administer platelet transfusion immediately. B. Monitor the patient for signs of bleeding and educate about bleeding precautions. C. Administer aspirin to reduce the risk of clot formation. D. Encourage the patient to engage in regular physical exercise to improve circulation.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Administering a platelet transfusion immediately is not indicated for a platelet count of 45,000/mm³. While this is below the normal range, it is not critically low. Platelet transfusions are typically reserved for patients with life-threatening bleeding or extremely low platelet counts.

Choice B reason: Monitoring the patient for signs of bleeding and educating about bleeding precautions is the appropriate intervention. Patients with thrombocytopenia are at an increased risk of bleeding, and it is essential to educate them on how to minimize this risk, such as avoiding activities that can cause injury, using a soft toothbrush, and avoiding over-the-counter medications that can affect platelet function.

Choice C reason: Administering aspirin to reduce the risk of clot formation is incorrect. Aspirin is an antiplatelet agent that can increase the risk of bleeding in patients with thrombocytopenia. It should be avoided unless specifically prescribed for another condition with close monitoring.

Choice D reason: Encouraging the patient to engage in regular physical exercise to improve circulation is not appropriate in this context. While physical activity is generally beneficial, it should be done with caution in patients with thrombocytopenia to avoid injury and bleeding. The focus should be on safety and bleeding precautions.

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The nurse is caring for a patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) whose platelet count is 10,000/mm³. What assessment finding will the nurse report to the provider immediately?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is discussing microvascular complications of diabetes with a patient. What topics will the nurse include in the discussion?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a patient with thrombocytopenia who has a platelet count of 45,000/mm³. What nursing intervention will the nurse implement to manage this condition?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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