The nurse is obtaining the health history from a client who was admitted with a platelet defect.
Which of the following information should be a priority for the nurse to obtain?
Reports of ecchymosis or wet purpura.
Any upcoming dental or invasive procedure appointments.
Over-the-counter and prescription medication use.
Family and genetic history.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Ecchymosis and wet purpura indicate abnormal bleeding tendencies often observed in platelet defects. While these findings are relevant, they are secondary to identifying medications that could exacerbate platelet dysfunction. Medication history directly influences the management plan by addressing reversible causes of thrombocytopenia, emphasizing its priority over descriptive bleeding symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Upcoming dental or invasive procedures are relevant to thrombocytopenia risks due to potential bleeding complications. However, these appointments do not provide immediate insight into causative factors of the platelet defect. Determining medication use offers direct information regarding drug-related impacts on platelet function, prioritizing it for management and diagnostic purposes over procedural risks.
Choice C rationale
Over-the-counter and prescription medication use are critical to evaluate because certain drugs can induce or worsen platelet defects. For example, NSAIDs like aspirin inhibit platelet aggregation and contribute to bleeding risks. Establishing this information helps guide management by identifying reversible causes and reducing complications associated with defective platelet function.
Choice D rationale
Family and genetic history offer valuable insights into inherited platelet disorders but are less immediately actionable for addressing acute platelet defects. Medications causing or contributing to thrombocytopenia present modifiable factors, prioritizing their identification over hereditary predispositions. Addressing medication-induced platelet dysfunction provides practical management strategies for preventing bleeding complications. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Constant erythema and warmth in the legs are indicative of venous insufficiency due to stagnant blood flow. PAD typically presents with cool, pale extremities as a result of reduced arterial perfusion.
Choice B rationale
Discomfort typically worsens when legs are elevated in PAD because elevation further impairs blood flow, causing ischemic pain. Relief is more commonly achieved when the legs are in a dependent position, aiding perfusion.
Choice C rationale
Pain during exercise, termed intermittent claudication, occurs due to insufficient oxygen delivery to muscles. Rest alleviates symptoms as oxygen demand decreases. This hallmark feature distinguishes PAD from other circulatory disorders.
Choice D rationale
Peripheral pulses in PAD are generally diminished or absent, reflecting compromised arterial blood flow. Bounding pulses would suggest conditions such as aortic regurgitation or hyperdynamic states, not PAD.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Serum electrolytes provide valuable information about fluid and electrolyte balance but are not specific markers for heart failure. Electrolyte abnormalities, such as hyponatremia, may occur but are secondary findings. Direct markers like BNP levels are more diagnostic for heart failure.
Choice B rationale
A complete blood count is used to assess infection, anemia, or inflammation but does not directly diagnose heart failure. It lacks specificity for cardiac function evaluation. Targeted testing ensures effective diagnosis and management.
Choice C rationale
Blood urea nitrogen measures renal function and is not a primary marker for heart failure. Elevated BUN may result from renal hypoperfusion secondary to heart failure but is not a definitive diagnostic indicator. Specific cardiac markers are required.
Choice D rationale
Brain natriuretic peptide is a hormone released in response to ventricular stretch from volume overload, characteristic of heart failure. Elevated BNP levels strongly correlate with heart failure severity and guide diagnosis. Normal BNP levels are typically <100 pg/mL. This test is highly specific for heart failure. .
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