When caring for a client diagnosed with thrombocytopenia, the nurse should plan to:
encourage vigorous tooth brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush.
avoid needle sticks or other invasive procedures as much as possible.
hold all stool softeners and laxatives until otherwise ordered.
obtain a low temperature every 8 hours.`
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: The nurse should not encourage vigorous tooth brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush. Thrombocytopenia is a condition where the blood has a low number of platelets, which are cells that help with clotting. ¹ Vigorous tooth brushing can cause bleeding of the gums, which can be hard to stop in a client with thrombocytopenia. The nurse should advise the client to use a soft sponge or swab to clean the teeth and mouth gently.
Choice B reason: The nurse should avoid needle sticks or other invasive procedures as much as possible. Needle sticks and other invasive procedures can cause bleeding, bruising, or infection in a client with thrombocytopenia. ¹ The nurse should use the smallest gauge needle possible, apply pressure for at least 10 minutes after the procedure, and monitor the site for any signs of bleeding or infection. The nurse should also avoid unnecessary blood draws or injections, and use non-invasive methods whenever possible.
Choice C reason: The nurse should not hold all stool softeners and laxatives until otherwise ordered. Stool softeners and laxatives can help prevent constipation and straining, which can cause hemorrhoids or anal fissures in a client with thrombocytopenia. ¹ The nurse should encourage the client to take stool softeners and laxatives as prescribed, drink plenty of fluids, and eat high-fiber foods to promote regular bowel movements.
Choice D reason: The nurse should not obtain a low temperature every 8 hours. A low temperature is not a relevant or accurate measurement for a client with thrombocytopenia. The nurse should obtain a normal temperature, which is around 98.6°F (37°C), using a non-invasive method, such as an oral or tympanic thermometer. ² The nurse should avoid using a rectal thermometer, as it can cause bleeding or infection in a client with thrombocytopenia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not a correct interpretation. An occlusion of the right coronary artery is a blockage of the blood flow to the right side of the heart, which can cause a heart attack or ischemia. This condition does not produce a systolic murmur, but rather chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea. A systolic murmur is a sound that occurs during the contraction of the heart, when the blood flows through a narrowed or leaky valve.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct interpretation. An aneurysm of the descending aorta is a bulging or weakening of the wall of the large artery that carries blood from the heart to the lower body. This condition does not produce a systolic murmur, but rather a pulsating mass in the abdomen, back pain, or abdominal pain. A systolic murmur is a sound that occurs during the contraction of the heart, when the blood flows through a narrowed or leaky valve.
Choice C reason: This is not a correct interpretation. Decreased fluid in the pericardial sac is a condition where the amount of fluid that surrounds and cushions the heart is reduced. This can be caused by dehydration, infection, or inflammation. This condition does not produce a systolic murmur, but rather a pericardial friction rub, which is a scratching or grating sound that occurs when the layers of the pericardium rub against each other. A systolic murmur is a sound that occurs during the contraction of the heart, when the blood flows through a narrowed or leaky valve.
Choice D reason: This is the correct interpretation. Distortion of one or more heart valves is a condition where the shape or function of the valves that regulate the blood flow through the heart is altered. This can be caused by congenital defects, rheumatic fever, endocarditis, or aging. This condition can produce a systolic murmur, which is a sound that occurs during the contraction of the heart, when the blood flows through a narrowed or leaky valve. The location and the intensity of the murmur can help identify which valve is affected. A systolic murmur in the second intercostal space to the right of the sternum can indicate a problem with the aortic valve.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Increasing the intake of dietary fiber is not related to the instruction for carvedilol. Dietary fiber is beneficial for lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels, but it does not affect the action or side effects of carvedilol. The client should follow a balanced diet that is low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol.
Choice B reason: This is the correct answer. Changing from a lying to sitting position slowly is an important instruction for carvedilol. Carvedilol is a beta-blocker that lowers the blood pressure and the heart rate. It can cause orthostatic hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions. This can lead to dizziness, fainting, or falls. The client should change positions gradually and avoid sudden movements.
Choice C reason: Expecting weight gain of 6-8 pounds is not an instruction for carvedilol. Weight gain is not a common or expected side effect of carvedilol. It can indicate fluid retention, which can worsen the heart condition and the blood pressure. The client should monitor their weight regularly and report any significant changes to the health care provider.
Choice D reason: Taking the medication after eating breakfast is not an instruction for carvedilol. Carvedilol can be taken with or without food, depending on the client's preference and tolerance. The important thing is to take the medication at the same time every day and not to skip or double the doses.
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