The nurse reviews the laboratory test results for a client diagnosed with leukemia who is receiving chemotherapy. The nurse notes that the client's platelet count is 20,000 cells/mm3(reference range 150,000 - 450,000). The nurse should prepare to implement a specific action based on this finding.
Call the dietary department to report that the client needs to be on a low-bacteria diet
Remove the fresh flowers from the client's room
Instruct the family members to wear a mask when in the client's room
Remove the rectal thermometer from the client's room
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. A low-bacteria diet is more relevant for clients with neutropenia, not thrombocytopenia.
B. Removing fresh flowers is also a precaution for infection prevention in immunocompromised (neutropenic) patients, not bleeding risk.
C. Family members wearing masks is an infection control measure for clients with low white blood cell counts, not low platelets.
D. A platelet count of 20,000 cells/mm³ indicates severe thrombocytopenia, putting the client at high risk for bleeding. Rectal thermometers can cause mucosal trauma and bleeding and should be avoided. Removing it is the appropriate safety measure in this scenario.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Notifying the healthcare provider is important but the nurse’s first priority is assessing the client’s overall status.
B. Reassurance without assessment ignores the potential seriousness of a hematoma.
C. Monitoring for signs of shock (hypotension, tachycardia) is the priority action because a hematoma can cause significant blood loss leading to hypovolemic shock.
D. Warm compresses are generally not recommended immediately after hematoma formation, as they may increase bleeding or swelling.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Activities that could result in bleeding are more appropriate precautions for clients with thrombocytopenia, not neutropenia.
B. Restricting oral fluids to between meals is unnecessary and may lead to inadequate hydration, especially during cancer treatment.
C. Fresh flowers and potted plants can harbor bacteria and fungi, which pose a significant infection risk to neutropenic clients. These should be restricted.
D. A complete ban on visitors is unnecessary. Visitors should be screened for illness and follow hand hygiene protocols, but supportive visitation is still encouraged when safe
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